Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

When would a double insulated two wire portable drill present a shock hazard?

1. When operated in low temperatures

2. If the energized drill was dropped in water

3. When used with a metal cord

4. While making direct contact with wet surfaces

The correct answer is: If the energized drill was dropped in water

A double insulated two-wire portable drill is designed to prevent electrical shock by having no exposed metal parts that can carry current. The insulation helps to ensure that if the drill does become energized, the user is still protected from shock. The scenario where the drill would present a shock hazard is when it is dropped in water while energized. Water is a conductive medium, and if the drill falls into a body of water, the insulation might be compromised or the electrical components could short circuit. In that situation, the water could potentially allow electrical current to flow through it, creating a direct path for shock to anyone in or near the water. In contrast, using the drill in low temperatures, with a metal cord, or while making direct contact with wet surfaces does not inherently create a shock hazard specific to the design limitations of a double insulated tool. The materials and construction of the drill aim to ensure protection under typical conditions, including those of low temperatures and when the drill is properly used on some wet surfaces. However, the danger arises significantly when the equipment interacts with water in a way that compromises its protective design.