How much current lasting three seconds can result in possible ventricular fibrillation in both men and women?

Ventricular fibrillation can occur when the heart’s electrical activity is disrupted, leading to ineffective contractions and a cessation of normal circulation. The threshold for current that can cause such physiological effects, including ventricular fibrillation, can vary based on numerous factors. However, research indicates that currents as low as 100 milliamps (ma) can be sufficient to induce this fatal arrhythmia in both men and women when applied for a duration of around three seconds.

At 100 ma, the current can disrupt the normal electrical impulses of the heart. This threshold has been recognized in safety standards and guidelines regarding electrical exposure. It is essential to keep in mind that while lower currents can also be dangerous, especially over longer durations, the specific context of three seconds is critical in identifying this particular risk threshold, which is widely acknowledged in electrical safety protocols.

Thus, the selection of 100 ma reflects this established recognition of risk regarding electric shock and its potential to lead to life-threatening cardiac events.