Electrical Hazards in the Home: What Do People Know?

Abstract

Consumers' knowledge about electrical facts and hazards in the home was examined to determine whether their understanding of certain aspects of electricity are complete and accurate. Eighty-two college students (who are better educated that most of the population) were surveyed. Results indicated the presence of erroneous assumptions and gaps of knowledge about electricity. These gaps and false beliefs could lead to unsafe behavior. Results have implications for the design of electrical products, education and training, consumer awareness programs, and warnings.