Working around high voltage lines and equipment requires proper training and safety precautions. As someone who has worked in the utility industry for over 10 years, I want to share some important safety tips that most people are unaware of when it comes to working near high voltage.
Understanding High Voltage Dangers
High voltage electricity poses significant dangers that you need to respect. Here are some key things to know:
Electricity Can Arc and Flash Unexpectedly
- Electricity can arc or flash from wires and equipment even when they are not being directly touched. Arcing can occur when objects get too close to high voltage lines.
- Arcing can cause severe burns and ignite fires. Any work near lines must keep a safe distance.
Electricity Can Jump Gaps
- High voltage electricity can jump gaps in air much farther than lower voltages.
- Keep a minimum of 10 feet away, but farther is safer. High voltage jumps can exceed 10 feet.
Electricity Can Flow Through Your Body
- Your body can become a path to ground for electricity if you contact high voltage lines or equipment.
- Current flowing through your body can cause severe burns, cardiac arrest, and death.
High Voltages Are Often Unguarded
- Power lines often have no insulation. Transmission towers are open and accessible.
- Substations may be fenced but equipment is openly exposed. Stay away and assume everything is energized.
Proper Planning and Precautions
Working safely around high voltage requires planning ahead and taking precautions.
Assume All Lines Are Live
- Never assume a high voltage line has been de-energized or grounded. There could be errors and miscommunications about taking things offline.
- Even if a line is normally de-energized, unexpected switching could re-energize it. Assume all lines and equipment are live.
Maintain Safe Distances
- OSHA requires minimum approach distances from energized high voltage lines and equipment. For example, over 350,000 volts requires a minimum of 15 feet.
- More distance is safer. Use spotters and barricades to maintain safe distances.
Use Proper PPE
- Wear properly rated rubber insulating gloves, sleeves, blankets, mats, and other PPE. Regular work gloves and clothing are not sufficient.
- Inspect PPE before each use for defects. Replace worn and damaged equipment.
Isolate and Ground Lines
- Whenever possible, isolate and ground high voltage lines before working near them. Install protective grounds.
- Verify lines are de-energized with proper voltage testing equipment.
Eliminate Distractions
- Focus 100% on the task when working near high voltage. Avoid distractions.
- Rushing leads to mistakes. Take your time and follow procedures.
If an Accident Occurs:
Do Not Approach or Touch the Victim
- You could become a victim too by touching someone who is in contact with high voltage.
- First ensure the power source is de-energized before helping the victim.
Use Nonconductive Tools to Separate the Victim
- Use insulated ropes or poles to separate the victim from the power source.
- As a last resort, push them off with a nonconductive object like dry wood.
Perform CPR if Needed
- Once the victim is free from the power source, check for breathing and heartbeat.
- Perform CPR if not breathing and use an AED if available until help arrives.
Seek Medical Help
- Electrical shock victims require professional emergency medical care.
- Administer first aid until emergency responders arrive.
Working around high voltage lines and equipment is inherently hazardous. Proper training, planning, protective equipment, and constant vigilance are essential to doing the job safely. Don't become complacent around electricity. Respect the dangers high voltage poses and take the necessary precautions.