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Danger Overhead Lines


Overhead power lines can sometimes be mistaken for telephone lines, but they are very different. Electricity Overhead lines can carry anything from 230 volts up to tens of thousands of volts, and even low-voltage contact can be fatal.

Lines can be difficult to see at night or against bright or dark backgrounds. Most overhead electricity lines are bare (not insulated), meaning there is nothing protecting you if you get too close. A common misconception is that rubber‑soled footwear will protect you from electric shock – this is not true.

Higher‑voltage lines usually have yellow “Danger of Death” warning plates fitted to poles, but lower‑voltage lines may not always be marked. At higher voltages, electricity can jump short distances through the air (called arcing) meaning you do not need to touch a line to suffer a potentially fatal shock. Items such as carbon‑fibre fishing rods, poles or other long conductive objects can cause electricity to arc. It is also extremely dangerous to fly kites or similar equipment near overhead power lines.

The Safe Use of Mechanical Plant in the Vicinity of Electricity Overhead Lines

Every year across the UK, people are killed or seriously injured when machinery or plant comes into contact with overhead electricity lines. Incidents frequently involve equipment such as HIABs, MEWPs, tipper lorries, trailers, grab lorries, concrete conveyors and excavators. These accidents continue to happen despite clear safety guidance.

This information is provided to help anyone using mobile plant for short‑duration work understand the risks and how to avoid becoming part of these statistics.  

Further Reading

For more detailed information, please see the following publications from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE):

  • GS6 - Avoiding Danger from Overhead Power Lines (the UK's primary guidance for working near overhead lines)
  • AFAG 804 – Electricity at Work: Forestry and Arboriculture

Always Remember

Electricity overhead lines can be extremely dangerous – the general rule is:

 

  • STAY AWAY and STAY SAFE
  • Treat all overhead lines as live and dangerous.
  • Any contact can be fatal or cause severe injury.
  • Electricity can jump gaps (arcing).
  • Before setting up or using plant near overhead lines – LOOK OUT, LOOK UP.
  • Take special care and use lighting during poor visibility.
  • If lines are anywhere near the area you are working in, stay well clear.
  • Set up machinery carefully to reduce the chance of contact.

 

These precautions are fully consistent with HSE GS6 and electricity network safety guidance. Standards and guidance – Energy Networks Association (ENA)

 

Contact Us

This information is based on current guidance from the Energy Networks Association (ENA) and UK electricity network operators. Background material is consistent with GS6 and updated DNO safety information, replacing older (2007) industry leaflets.
[energynetworks.org], [fwi.co.uk]

  

   

 

 

 

Dig@gov.im