How many amps are typically considered lethal?

The choice of 0.1 A (100 mA) as a typically lethal current is based on established safety standards and the physiological effects of electrical shock on the human body. Research has shown that when an electrical current as low as 10 mA (0.01 A) can produce a sensation of shock and higher currents can lead to more severe consequences.

At 100 mA, the risk of ventricular fibrillation, which can result in death, significantly increases. This is the point at which the heart’s electrical signals can be disrupted, potentially leading to a fatal heart rhythm. As currents increase beyond 100 mA, the likelihood of severe injury or death further escalates, with higher currents often causing immediate damage to tissues and organs.

While currents of 0.5 A (500 mA) and 1.0 A (1000 mA) are also very dangerous and generally exceed the lethal range, 100 mA is recognized as a critical threshold where the heart’s function can be dangerously impaired, making it a key point of reference for safety in electrical work. This understanding emphasizes the importance of adhering to safety standards and using appropriate protective measures when working with electricity.