What should be the primary concern regarding risk from low voltage circuits under fault conditions?

The primary concern regarding risk from low voltage circuits under fault conditions is thermal burn. When a fault occurs in a low voltage circuit, there can be a significant increase in current that flows through the circuit. This can lead to overheating of conductors and other components, which may cause them to reach temperatures high enough to ignite materials nearby, leading to burns or fires.

In particular, thermal burns can result not only from direct contact with overheated surfaces but also from secondary effects, such as molten metal or burning insulation. This is critical in environments where low voltage circuits are in close proximity to flammable materials or where workers might encounter these circuits without adequate protective measures.

Understanding the potential for thermal burns helps in implementing appropriate safety practices, such as using thermal insulation, maintaining safe distances, and ensuring that circuit protection devices are correctly rated and functional. This focus aids in creating a safer work environment when dealing with low voltage circuits.