Understanding The Risk Of Power Lines

New York Electrical Power Line Accidents

Electrical contractors are trained in how to work with electrical power lines, whether they are buried or overhead. These lines carry extremely high voltages. The main risk from these lines is fatal electrocution. There are other hazards, too, such as falls from heights and electrical burns.

There are many types of equipment that can come in contact with power lines. These include:

— Backhoes

— Metal ladders

— Raised dump truck beds

— Scaffolds

— Metal building materials

— Concrete pumpers

— Aluminum paint rollers

— Raised dump truck beds

— Long-handled cement finishing floats

— Cranes

Avoiding the hazards of electrical power lines means that you should look for the indicators of buried power lines and overhead power lines. Warning signs need to be posted. It is always best to contact utility departments so they can mark the locations of buried power lines.

When working around power lines, you should stay at least 10 feet away. Always assume that the overhead lines are energized. Only fiberglass ladders or wood ladders should be used working close to power lines.

Overhead power lines are not insulated. They can carry tens of thousands of volts. Employees who work near power lines should be required to attend safety training on the dangers these lines pose. Each year, about 350 die from injuries suffered from electricity.

If you have been injured because of negligence on your worksite, you may have a cause to file a third-party lawsuit. A Personal Injury lawsuit may be sought if you were injured on the job and it was because of negligence. An attorney can help you determine which way has a better chance of success.

Source: Occupational Safety & Health Administration, “Electrical Incidents,”