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Working Safely Near Overhead and Underground Power Lines

Most overhead power lines have no protective insulation. Any contact with them could be dangerous. Here is a recommended work plan.

Locate power lines

Before starting work, locate all power lines. Call Manitoba Hydro for the voltage of the lines in your immediate work area.

Ask for the location and voltage of underground power cables as well. This is especially important if you are using drilling or trenching equipment.

If necessary, make arrangements to have power lines de-energized, barricaded, or moved from the work site.

Wear electrical shock-resistant footwear. But remember that although these boots help resist the passage of electricity, they are not foolproof.

Advise co-workers

If working with plans or blueprints, indicate the power lines. Place warning signs along the land route of overhead and underground power lines in the work area. Inform workers of the hazards of touching or coming too close to the lines. Tell them that if equipment touches power lines, the whole rig will become energized, including winch lines, drag lines, and anything to which they are attached.

Manitoba Hydro recommends the following clearances:

  • At least 3 m between a power line and any the equipment with which you are working.
  • At least 3.6 m between the closest part of equipment and a power line running parallel to it,
  • At least 9.1 m between any water well and a power line. This clearance is mandatory when digging or drilling any well, or when a new power line is erected next to an existing water well.
  • At least 15.2 m clearance between homes and power lines.

Keep material or equipment away from power lines

Observing minimum clearances will eliminate some potential hazards, but there are other situations where caution is required.

  • When moving equipment under power lines, be sure there is enough clearance for safe passage.
  • Be sure to lower truck dump boxes and other pieces of equipment before moving under power lines.
  • Do not trim branches or fell trees near power lines. Manitoba Hydro personnel are specially trained in removing such hazards and should be called when such a task has to be done.
  • Install antennas carefully. Be sure to keep away from power lines so that no accidental contact occurs during installation. Make sure the antennas are located so that should they be blown over or fall, they will not contact power lines. Be sure all antennas are securely, and properly guyed, as well as grounded.
  • It's difficult to distinguish between low-voltage hydro wires, telephone and cable television wires. To avoid taking unnecessary chances, keep away from all wires.
  • Be very careful when using an aluminium ladder near power lines or the service entrance to a home. Be sure the ladder does not come in contact with power lines.

Assign a safety watcher/post decals

A safety watcher should also be assigned to stay in view while vehicles are in operation to alert drivers of potential dangers when operating in close proximity to power lines.

Manitoba Hydro has two decals: LOOK UP AND LIVE and CALL BEFORE YOU DIG. These are available, free of charge, simply by calling your local Manitoba Hydro Office.