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38 Safety, training and disinfection Introduction Even a weak electric field through the body might result in heart failure. As voltages of more than 200 V usually are required for efficient electro- fishing, it is important to realize. the potential danger of electrofishing operations. Moisture may cause perilous leakage of current to control boxes, frames or to the anode handle, and accidental exposure to the anodic or cathodic fields may be fatal. To reduce these risks, proper construction of equipment and adequate training of personnel is imperative. Equipment The equipment should be constructed and approved according to national standards. Alter- nating current (AC) is extremely dangerous and should not be used as output voltage. If an AC power unit is used the current must therefore be transformed to non-pulsed or pulsed DC via a control box. All components of the equipment must be suitable for exposure to outdoor and wet environ- ments. Special attention should be paid to the standard of the control box enclosure, terminals, plugs, sockets, cables and the anode handle. In addition, the robustness, construction and quality of the mounting is of primary importance for safety. The risk of current leakage is reduced if the control box is provided with a ventilated insu- lating enclosure. For portable equipment proper insulation between the frame and the power unit/control box is especially important. Output from the power unit and the control box should be provided with indicators showing when the units are energised and when power is available to the electrode connectors. Cables and connectors should be insulated with a rated voltage in excess of the output voltage from the control box. The anode should be provided by a dead-man switch, operating through a low voltage secondary circuit. This switch is often a weak point as repeated exposure to moisture may cause break- down. The Norwegian switch (Paulsen type), which is closed and operated by a magnet, appears to be a good solution. Dip net handles and fish containers - if placed in the water - must be made of non-conducting material. All equipment used must be checked for mechanical and electrical faults at intervals according to the degree and conditions of use, and at least annually. Operation The anodic as well as the cathodic fields are potentially dangerous. The cathodic field must not be left unguarded during the fishing operation. Holding nets for fish must not be placed in the vicinity of the cathode. Only first class quality waders in good con- dition and with efficient anti-slip soles should be used, especially in large streams. Avoid fishing in deep rapids, both for security and efficiency reasons. To reduce the risk of current leakage, electro- fishing should not be performed in rainy weather. When fishing from a boat bouyance aids must be worn. The boat must be large and stable enough to accomodate the crew. We recommend boats made of non-conducting material for electro- fishing. Electrofishing must be carried out by a team of at least two persons. An experienced team leader should be responsible for safety, first aid, equip- ment and protective clothing, and for safety in- structions to each member of the team. Training and permission Permission to perform electro fishing should only be given to persons who have participated in a course comprising theory and practice of electro- fishing, including safety considerations and first aid. This course should be approved by the national fishery authorities. . r r I I [ I I