Red Seal Electrician Practice
Safety and work practicesQuestion 287 of 1506

Why is dry dirt still a shock hazard even though it is a poor conductor?

  1. Wet dirt has less resistance than copper wire does
  2. Dirt stores charge in the same way a capacitor does when wet
  3. Dirt makes the ground rod weaker over a long time
  4. A small current can injure, and power systems have enough voltage
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Correct answer: A small current can injure, and power systems have enough voltage

A small current through the body can be fatal, so even weak earth conduction at power voltages is a hazard.

Source: Troubleshooting Motors and Controls (Dickson-Self), 1.1: Safety

Practice safety and work practices

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026