Working Near Power Lines OSHA 19261408
Overview
Overhead and underground power lines carry deadly voltage that can arc through the air and kill workers without direct contact. Working near power lines requires careful planning, maintaining safe clearances, and constant awareness of line locations.
Why This Is Important
Contact with power lines causes approximately 50 electrocution deaths annually in construction and related industries. High voltage electricity can jump through air, electrocuting workers who come too close even without touching lines. Equipment booms, ladders, and materials contacting power lines often kill multiple workers simultaneously. OSHA requires specific minimum clearances from power lines based on voltage. These clearances aren’t suggestions—they’re life-or-death requirements that protect workers from invisible electrical arcs.
Best Practices & Safety Tips
- Maintain minimum 10-foot clearance from power lines up to 50kV—greater distances for higher voltages.
- Assume all power lines are energized at deadly voltage unless confirmed de-energized by the utility.
- Contact utility companies to de-energize or relocate power lines before beginning work nearby when possible.
- Use spotters dedicated to monitoring equipment proximity to power lines during operations.
- Install physical barriers or warning lines to prevent equipment from entering electrical hazard zones.
- Ensure boom and equipment operators know exact locations of all overhead and underground power lines.
- Call 811 before digging to locate underground utilities including electrical lines.
- Never touch equipment or vehicles contacting power lines—stay away and call emergency services.
- If equipment contacts lines and you’re inside, stay in the cab and call for help—only exit if fire requires it.
- If you must exit energized equipment, jump clear with feet together and shuffle away—never walk normally.
Discussion Questions
- What power line hazards exist in our current work areas?
- How can we improve communication about power line locations before work begins?
- What near-misses with power lines have occurred in our organization?
- How do we ensure equipment operators maintain safe clearances from power lines?
- What would you do if you witnessed equipment contacting overhead power lines?
Takeaway
Power lines are invisible killers that demand constant awareness and respect. Maintain required clearances, assume all lines are energized, and never take chances near electrical hazards. Your life depends on these precautions.