Overhead power lines can create a major safety hazard for anyone working outdoors with, or near, power lines. According to a study by the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) at least 116 workers die each year from contact with overhead power lines, making it the most common cause of worker electrical fatalities. What’s worse is that high-voltage electricity can jump to anyone who gets too close, meaning direct contact is not entirely necessary to cause injury. ESFI recommends workers always stay at least 10 ft away from power lines and their connections, and always consider power lines to be energized and dangerous.
ESFI offers these safety tips for those working outdoors, near power lines:
- Look up before raising a ladder, pole, truck bed, crane or any other equipment to make sure that it is within a safe distance, which is usually 10 ft, from any power lines.
- If using a crane or derrick in construction maintain a clearance of 20 ft from power lines. Consult www.osha.gov for clearances for all voltages.
- Never trim trees that have high-voltage power lines going through them, or touch any tree limb that may fall into a power line.
- Only use nonmetal and non-conductive ladders made of fiberglass or wood when working near overhead power lines.
- Stay at least 10 ft away from a downed power line and any nearby objects, such as a fence or a tree limb.
- Never touch a person who is in contact with a downed power line, instead, call 911 immediately.
- Before beginning any digging project, contact your electric company to identify underground power lines.
Click here for more information on resources power line safety.
