Why is understanding step and touch voltage important in electrical safety?

Understanding step and touch voltage is critical in electrical safety as it directly informs the necessary safety precautions when working with electrical systems. Step voltage refers to the voltage difference between the feet of a person standing near an energized source, while touch voltage is the voltage difference between a conductive object and a person's body.

By comprehending the risks associated with these voltages, professionals can implement appropriate safety measures to protect themselves and others from electrical shock hazards. This includes establishing proper grounding techniques, maintaining safe distances from energized sources, and using protective equipment designed to mitigate these voltages. Hence, grasping the concepts of step and touch voltage is vital in ensuring safe work practices in electrical environments.