Which statement about primary electric shocks is correct?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes true
• D. Never true

Answer: (A)

Primary electric shocks come from contact with the live, line-side conductors of welding equipment. These parts are connected to the building power supply and can carry dangerous voltages whenever the equipment is powered, even if the welding arc isn’t active. Because of this, a shock from the primary side is a real and ongoing hazard—it's not something you can ignore or assume away with the arc being the only danger. That’s why the statement is true: primary electric shocks can occur and must be prevented by properly de-energizing and locking out equipment, testing to verify absence of voltage, and avoiding contact with exposed primary parts. The risk isn’t something you can dismiss as occasionally true or never true; treat any exposed primary conductors as energized until proven safe.