Which factor does NOT determine the severity of an electric shock?

The quality of insulation does not directly determine the severity of an electric shock experienced by a person. Instead, insulation plays a significant role in preventing electric shock by isolating live parts from the environment and reducing the risk of accidental contact.

The factors that do influence the severity of an electric shock include the current amount, which directly correlates to the potential damage to bodily tissues; the path taken by the current through the body, which dictates how much of the body is affected and which vital organs might be impacted; and the frequency of the current, which can influence how the body reacts to the shock, especially with regard to high-frequency AC currents that can cause different physiological effects compared to lower frequencies.

Understanding these factors is crucial for safety in electrical work, as they provide insight into how dangerous an electrical current can be to an individual. While insulation is essential for safety and reduction of risk, it does not affect the severity of a shock should one occur.