What is Step Potential?

Step potential refers to the electrocution risk based on the possible amount of voltage running through the ground. For example, if a power line falls down and touches the ground, it may be able to cause a pool of electricity for 10 meters (hypothetically); for every meter out from the initial pont of electrical contact to ground, the voltage may be lower. Consequently, if a person is standing at 9-10 meters from the intial live wire point – the variance between each leg may be up to 1000 volts, which will then try to travel through the person’s body.

This is why it is important for paramedics to keep their legs together when they are near fallen powerlines.