5 Tips for Working Around Wires

• Less than 750 volts -1 meter
• 750-150,000 volts – 3 meters
• 150,001 to 250,00 Volts – 4.5 meters
• 250,001+ Volts – 6 meters

Within 1 meter of 750 volt power lines is fine, but workers should avoid touching or getting too close to them as they can still be dangerous. Also, equipment, tools, and other working materials must not be stored under power lines and, if there is no other option, post warning signs to make people aware of the dangers hanging above. He also said that it should be posted.

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3. Eliminate or control hazards

Once electrical hazards have been identified and everyone knows the proper distance to keep them away, they must be eliminated or controlled. The IHSA lists five of his control methods, stating that these methods have a hierarchy of effects. The most effective control method is elimination. This means physically removing the hazard. Depending on your utility and jurisdiction, you may be able to temporarily remove the power line by calling your utility. The following control methods are alternatives. This is meant to replace electrical hazards.

Engineering controls include isolating workers from hazards, but moderate risks remain. According to IHSA, this involves asking power line owners to lift or move power lines, making it harder for workers to move beyond the minimum safe distance. This may include installing power line cover-ups to protect workers from accidental contact.

The fourth method is management control, which means changing work processes. This may include designating the employee as a signal person to ensure that the employee and equipment do not exceed a safe minimum distance. It also means making sure you have an emergency plan in place to treat electrical accidents immediately with first aid supplies.