Is AC or DC current safer?

Question

Is AC or DC current safer? And why? Thanks!

William · Accepted Answer

DC current can cause serious body burns compared to same amount of AC current.

Duncan · Answer

They’re both dangerous, both can cause fatal shocks, burns and fires. They have different applications and both have certain risks and certain benefits. There is a popular misconception that extra low voltage DC transformers are safer because the produce DC power, in fact the additional protection is due to the transformer providing protection by electrical separation. If you were to touch a DC train line you’d get fried just the same as if you touch a 3 phase AC power line. All electrical power has risks and you shouldn’t get involved unless you are qualified to do so.

Neil · Answer

As has already been  said both can kill.

DC current stays at the same level all the time as there is a positive and a negative.

AC Technically is at zero 50 times a second. This is why if you do get a shock you are able to let go if the current isn't to large. On a Dc system. The power is on and stays on so your muscles contract and you grip harder.

Either way both types can cause electric shocks and both can kill.

Daniel · Answer

AC or alternating current is the current which changes its magnitude and direction periodically with time. While, the direct current or DC current is the current which has a magnitude and flows in one direction only.

Colin · Answer

This is just 2 different types of current, both perfectly safe if installed correctly, and both can kill if not.

Danny · Answer

Generally DC current is safer but if you don’t understand the principles of either of these then they both can be unsafe.

Antonio · Answer

DC
Humans are able to withstand the effects of an electric shock arising from DC exposure much better than when exposed to AC.

Damian · Answer

DC Is safer.....  The human body has a higher impedance to DC currents than AC, so this means that humans are able to withstand the effects of an electric shock arising from DC exposure much better than when exposed to AC

Is AC or DC current safer?

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