Safety Around Overhead Power Lines


Staying clear of high-voltage overhead power lines is vital to your safety and the safety
of others on the job. Always look up before moving or using tools or equipment such as
irrigation pipe, ladders or cranes that may come in contact with overhead power lines.

Federal and state laws require you to stay a safe distance of 10 feet or more away from
overhead power lines of 50,000 volts or less while working. This 10-foot clearance not
only applies to you, but also to anything you may be carrying or using. For higher
voltages, keep a greater distance and plan the location of heavy equipment, such as
cranes, in consultation with the Water, Gas & Light Commission. Notify “811” and let
them know you are working under, over, or near high voltage lines

The law also requires that if you must work closer than 10 feet to one of our high voltage
lines, you must contact “811” in advance to arrange for safe working conditions.

Use spotters when operating lift trucks and power or farm equipment to make sure
overhead lines aren’t contacted. The spotter should be positioned near the heavy
equipment the entire time it is being operated near high-voltage lines. The spotter’s only
duties should be observing the work and communicating with the operator to ensure the
equipment never gets closer than 10 feet to a power line.

Recognize the dangers and act responsibly. The best way to avoid injury from power
lines is to make a personal commitment to safety. Your safety and the safety of others
depend on it.