Axcess Industries understands that working near power lines is dangerous and poses many risks if the proper precautions are not taken. Safety Ed wants to make sure that you know the precautions and considerations to take when working near power lines.
- First, find out if any part of the equipment, load line or load, if operated in the maximum radius in the work zone, will come within 20 feet to a power line.
If so:
- Deenergize and ground.
- Mark them as deenergized and ask the utility company to confirm before working near the lines. Also confirm that the lines are visibly grounded at the worksite.
- Distance yourself. OSHA has developed a work rule requirement for working near power lines. A minimum approach distances for working near power lines based on their line voltages.
- Before distancing workers from energized lines, conduct a planning meeting with the equipment operator and other workers in the work area to review the location of the power lines. Take this time to discuss the plan to prevent contact with the lines and make sure everyone is aware of when the work will start and stop.