Limits of approach
Limits of approach were designed to keep you working safely on the job site. Safe working distance is 7 metres from an over head power line, unless confirmed otherwise by EPCOR. If you need to work within 7 metres of the power line, please contact Power Trouble.
- Know the limits of approach for equipment and workers and follow the guidelines.
- Mark locations of all overhead power lines on plans and drawings.
- Ensure there's enough clearance to keep workers and equipment safe from overhead lines.
- Check the provincial regulations.
- Call your utility service provider for clearance requirements specific to your area and the job.
- Set up signs warning of overhead power lines.
Guiding loads
The single job of a designated signaller is to keep large equipment away from power lines. The signaller should know the limits of approach and keep equipment operators working safely.
- A signaller helps equipment operators steer clear of overhead lines.
- The signaller should stand out from the other workers and use a clear set of signals easily understood by the equipment operator.
- Make sure the signaller can signal the equipment operator quickly and easily if there is danger of contacting a power line.
Large equipment
Every year workers operating large equipment are injured or killed because of contacts with overhead lines. Follow these safe work practices:
- Keep vehicles clear of lines. Dump trucks, concrete rigs, cranes and other high-rise equipment can contact overhead power lines. Work with a designated signaler to keep safely away and don't forget to lower your buckets and booms before moving equipment under power lines.
- Plan your worksite to minimize travel under power lines. Ensure safe work distances are being followed.
- Employees should keep clear of all big equipment/machines working around power lines.
- Machines should display a sign stating "Keep clear: working near electrical lines."
- To arrange for a high load escort.
