When a person is removing material from a crane that has contacted a power line, what type of potential are they exposed to?

The situation described involves a person removing material from a crane that has made contact with a power line, which raises concerns about electrical hazards. When a power line is involved, the primary concern is the risk of electrical shock due to differences in voltage that can exist between different points on the body or between the person and the ground.

The concept of touch potential is crucial here. Touch potential refers specifically to the electrical potential difference that can occur between two conductive components that a person touches simultaneously. In this scenario, if the crane has contacted a power line, the electrical potential from the line can energize the crane and create a dangerous situation where the person becomes a pathway for electrical current. If they are in contact with the crane and also touching the ground, they could experience a shock due to the differences in electrical potential between the crane and the ground.

This scenario emphasizes the critical safety risks associated with high-voltage electricity and highlights the importance of proper training and safety protocols when working near power lines. Understanding touch potential is vital for avoiding severe injury or fatality in such situations.