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Home » Consumer Information » Occupational Safety » Electrical

Power Lines

OSHA has specific guidelines for working on power lines. Employers must make sure that all power line workers have a copy of said guidelines, as well as implementing their own safety programs to help workers recognize and control the power line hazards. Employers should also conduct daily inspections of the worksite in order to address hazards and implement control measures.

To protect against power line accidents, workers should always carry out the following procedures:

  • De-energize all equipment and ensure that it stays de-energized by using a lockout and tag procedure.
  • Use grounding lines when necessary and insulating equipment.
  • Keep at a safe distance from energized parts.
  • Never assume that lines are dead, and never touch a line, even if it has been brought down.
  • Never touch a person who is in contact with a live power line.
  • Never touch a machine that is in contact with an overhead line.
  • Do not store materials under or near overhead power lines.
  • Don't operate equipment around overhead power lines unless trained and instructed to do so.
  • When an object must be moved near overhead power lines, a worker must observe clearance between the power line and object and warn others if the appropriate distance isn't maintained.
  • Use non-conductive wooden or fiberglass ladders when working near power lines.
  • Use appropriate protective equipment when working on power lines, including rubber insulating gloves, hoods, sleeves, matting and blankets.
  • All protective equipment must be tested annually and inspected before each use.
  • The tools used must be designed to withstand power line voltages and stresses.
  • Tools should be regularly maintained and inspected before each use. Those found inappropriate for use should be tagged and discarded.
  • If in a vehicle that is in contact with an overhead power line, stay inside of the vehicle and avoid touching metal or wiring.
  • All employees working on or around power lines should be trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).