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Do not use appliances, if
damaged
wires exposed
working properly
both a and b
both a and b
Quick Summary: Operating an electrical appliance that is physically damaged or has exposed wiring poses a severe risk of electric shock and fire hazards. Insulation failure or structural compromise disrupts the safety path of the current, making it unsafe for human interaction.
Operating an electrical appliance that is physically damaged or has exposed wiring poses a severe risk of electric shock and fire hazards. Insulation failure or structural compromise disrupts the safety path of the current, making it unsafe for human interaction.
I=RV — Ohm's Law governing fault current magnitude
P=I2R — Power dissipation leading to heat and fire risk
Electrical safety relies on the integrity of insulation to prevent current from leaking to the chassis or the user. When a device is damaged or wires are exposed, the 'Live' conductor may come into contact with the device's outer casing or a person's skin. Since human body resistance is relatively low compared to the path of a short circuit, an unintended current path forms, potentially leading to fatal macroshock or accidental arcing.
Damaged casing risks mechanical injury and potential contact with energized parts.
Exposed wires bypass primary safety insulation, creating immediate shock hazards.
Always perform a visual inspection of power cords and plugs before usage.
Never attempt to repair mains-operated appliances with improvised insulation like tape.
Prevents accidental electrocution
Reduces the risk of localized electrical fires
Domestic appliance safety
Industrial machinery maintenance protocols
Exposed copper wires indicate that the dielectric strength of the insulation has been completely compromised.
Option C is incorrect because a device working properly is safe to use unless other external hazards are present.
The combination of A and B covers both internal failure (casing) and external supply path failure (wiring).
D is correct — Using appliances with physical damage or exposed wires creates a direct path for current to pass through the user or surroundings, leading to shock or fire.
In competitive exams, always prioritize the most comprehensive answer; since both A and B are hazardous, 'both a and b' is the logically correct choice.