How much current is enough to potentially put the heart into fibrillation?

The amount of current that can potentially induce ventricular fibrillation in the heart is a critical aspect of electrical safety, especially in professions involving electrical systems. Typically, studies and electrical safety guidelines indicate that currents at or above 10 milliamperes (mA) can lead to fibrillation in a portion of the population.

When a person is exposed to electric current, the body's physiological reaction includes muscle contraction and potential disruption of normal heart rhythms. At 10 mA, which is the figure provided in the chosen answer, there is a significant risk of causing the heart to go into a chaotic rhythm, known as fibrillation, which can be fatal if not promptly addressed.

Understanding this threshold is crucial for linemen and others working with or around electrical systems, as it emphasizes the importance of personal protective equipment and adherence to safety protocols to minimize exposure to electric current.