Page 11 - Arkansas 811 Magazine 2021 Issue 4

• Many workers are unaware of the potential electrical hazards present in their work environment, which makes them more vulnerable to the danger of injury or electrocution.
• It is important for employers to instruct their employees in the
Many workers are unaware of the potential electrical hazards present in their work environment,
recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the rules and regulations applicable to their work environment
to control or eliminate any hazards or exposure to electrical contacts.
Dos
1. Always consider down wires to be energized
2. Perform a safety briefing, whether in a group or if working alone to look for possible hazards
3. If someone new comes into the work area, stop and conduct another safety briefing
4. Inspect all of your equipment to make sure that it is in proper working order.
5. Inspect your power tools check switches and cords
6. Turn off the breaker if you are working on electrical equipment
7. Use a spotter when necessary
8. When making a locate request,
verify your contact information
Don’ts
1. Never assume that a down wire is dead. Stay at least 30 feet away and warn anyone in the area to stay back.
2. If you see or knock down an overhead wire, stop what you are doing call 911. They will contact the utility company in that area.
3. If you are in a vehicle or on a piece of equipment and a wire falls on the vehicle/equipment, stay in/on the vehicle. If the vehicle/equipment starts smoking then you will need to jump clear making sure that your feet are together and that you do not come in contact with the vehicle/equipment. When you land on the ground, keep your feet together and scuffle step away from the vehicle for at least 30 feet. (another option is to bunny hop away keeping your feet together).
4. When preparing to excavate, survey the work are looking for overhead
and underground hazards. You want
to make sure that the boom of your equipment will not come in contact with an overhead line. Use a spotter when necessary.
You can contact your local power company for additional information and ask them about a safety presentation for your employees.
Dig safe with
free training.
Calling 811 is the first step, but what else should your crews know to avoid hitting utility lines?
Visit blackhillsenergy.com/digsafe to request a free onsite training from our damage prevention coordinator. We’re ready to help your team stay safe and avoid fines.
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2021, Issue 4 Arkansas 811 Magazine • 9