A Ten Year Study of Pattern of Electrocution Deaths in Bangalore

Deaths due to electrocution constitute an important part of unnatural deaths even though uncommon but most of them are preventable since almost all are accidental deaths. This 10 year study from January 2000-December 2009 at department of Forensic Medicine, M.S. Ramaiah Medical College revealed that a total of 76 cases of electrocution were identified in 10 years averaging 7.6 cases per year and constituting 1.05% of autopsies conducted. The highest incidence was seen in 20-29 yrs age group (44.7%). Males constituted 83% of cases. Construction workers accounted for 32.9% of cases and 28% of individuals were engaged in domestic activities. Maximum number of cases occurred in the afternoon (63.2%). In 32 cases there was a single electric contact wound and the most common site was the hand (49 cases). Exit wounds were noted in 10 cases (13.2%) and foot was the commonest site (8 cases). In eleven (14.5%) cases the deceased had sustained other associated fatal injuries.