Always Look Up

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

A safe working distance depends on the voltage of the power lines. Always maintain a distance of at least 10 feet from overhead lines and more than 10 feet if the voltage to ground is over 50 kilovolts (50,000 volts). The higher the voltage, the greater the distance that is needed between the lines and the workers.

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 vehicle, downed lines, or anything that may be in contact with downed lines.
• Warn others too 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.