Does your company provide information to the public regarding the overhead power line safety statutes for the states in which it operates? Is information posted in the safety area of your web site?

One of the most prevalent types of incidents involving electric utility facilities resulting in personal injuries are those involving contact with overhead transmission and distribution lines. "Failure to warn" is invariably alleged when these incidents occur. Educating the public to recognize and avoid overhead electric lines may prevent injuries and reduce a utility's exposure to these risks.

Many states have statutes making it illegal for an unauthorized person or entity to work or bring equipment within 10 feet (6 feet in some states) of an energized high-voltage overhead line. "High voltage" is generally defined as electric lines operating at greater than 600 volts. OSHA standards require workers to stay more than 10 feet away from power lines of 50 kilovolts or lower and greater distances from higher voltage power lines. The purpose of these requirements is to ensure the safety of the public when working around overhead power lines.

These statutes typically specify that when any person intends to carry out any function or activity in closer proximity to a high-voltage overhead power line than is permitted by the applicable statute, the person or persons responsible for the function or activity shall notify the electric utility which owns or operates the high-voltage overhead power line and shall make appropriate arrangements with the utility company so that the work may be performed in a safe manner.

Review a sample overhead power line safety message

Hurricanes, tornadoes, windstorms and ice storms are just some of the natural disasters that can severely impact electric utility transmission and distribution systems. These events can result in widespread service outages and damage to facilities. This outline, developed by the AEGIS Loss Control staff, comprises the major components of an electric utility emergency restoration plan. Review the outline to determine if your company's emergency restoration plan includes these elements.

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