Responding to Downed or Contacted Energized Lines

If an overhead line falls, is contacted, or is otherwise judged to be a danger, the following precautions should be taken:

• Keep all persons at least 10 feet from the livewire, and use flags and barriers to protect motorists and pedestrians.
• Notify the local electrical department as soon as possible.
• Do not attempt to move the wires or anything that is touching the wires. Look out for water or other conductors that may be present.
• Crews are required to have local emergency numbers readily available. These numbers must include the local electrical department, police, fire, and medical assistance.
• Never touch an individual that has become energized by an arc. Call for emergency assistance immediately, and notify the electrical department. If the individual is no longer contacting energized components, administer first aid if you are qualified to do so.
• If a wire falls on a vehicle or equipment, it will cause arcing, smoke, and possibly fire. Remain in the cab until the line is de-energized. Jumping free from the vehicle should be a last resort, but if it becomes necessary, do so by leaping with both feet without contacting the equipment.
• If the equipment you are operating touches a low-hanging wire, stop immediately and jump free if it is safe to do so. Keep your feet together and shuffle or bunny hop away from the vehicle, and do not return until you know it is safe to do so.

To learn more about Arc Flash Safety visit our OSHA Construction Arc Flash Safety Online Training web page.