Overhead Powerline Safety

Between 2011 and 2018, 38% of all electrically related workplace fatalities were caused by overhead power lines. In the majority of these cases, fatalities occurred in occupations with little to no electrical safety training. So when you’re on a job site, remember to always look up, always – it can save your life.

If a vehicle or object contacts a power line or utility pole:

• Consider all lines to be live and dangerous
• Tell others not to approach the vehicle, downed lines, or anything that may be in contact with downed lines
• Warn others to stay at least 35 feet away
• Stay in place or inside your vehicle unless you see fire or smoke
• Call 911

In the event of fire or smoke:

• Do not touch the ground and vehicle at the same time
• Jump from the vehicle with your feet together
• Shuffle away and avoid lifting your feet

In 2016, 53% of all fatal electrical injuries occurred in the Construction industry. The Construction industry remained the leading source of fatal electrical injuries with 82, about three times the contribution of the second-highest source, Professional and Business Services. Learn how to work safely near power lines with these simple steps:

1. Locate all overhead power lines
2. Keep self and equipment 10 feet away from all overhead power lines
3. Do not touch anything that is in contact with the power line
4. Beware of fencing near power lines
5. Carry ladders and other equipment horizontally
6. Lower equipment apparatus before driving
7. Never spray water near power lines
8. Stay at least 35 feet away from fallen power lines

Contact with overhead power lines is the leading cause of electrical fatalities for agricultural workers. Of the 1,001 reported power line contact incidents from 2003-2009, nearly 70% resulted in death. Luckily, these fatalities can be prevented by following these simple steps while on the job.

1. Locate all overhead power lines
2. Keep self and equipment 10 feet away from all overhead power lines
3. Do not touch anything that is in contact with the power line
4. Beware of fencing near power lines
5. Carry ladders and other equipment horizontally
6. Lower equipment apparatus before driving
7. Never spray near power lines with irrigation systems
8. Stay at least 35 feet away from fallen power lines