Electrical Safety
Overhead powerlines can present many issues when moving equipment. The most common issues arise when moving grain augers, bale elevators, and other tall equipment. Steps to prevent equipment from coming in contact with overhead powerlines are to lower the equipment, if possible, or contact your local power company and inquire about raising the height of the powerline.
General Safety Tips
Always remember to look up before operating your equipment. Almost half of all powerline contact happens with large equipment.
If you see a down powerline, stay back at least 33 ft. If you hit a down powerline with your car, do not get out of your car. Call 911 immediately to report the down line.
If you strike a powerline while operating equipment, remain calm and if possible back away from the powerline. Remain inside the cab of your piece of equipment. If a fire starts, jump from the cab of the equipment. Ensure that you do not touch the equipment while you are exiting. Once you have reached the ground, “bunny hop” away from the equipment, until you are 33 ft away.
Step Potential
Step potential is the voltage difference between one step. Voltage is the highest at the source and fades as you go out. Stepping on two different voltages at the same time may electrocute you. Electricity, like heat, likes to travel from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration. If you step on two different voltages, the higher voltage area uses you as a conductor to move energy into the lower voltage area.
