In the wake of a storm or disaster, construction crews are often among the first to get to work. Whether it’s debris removal, structural repairs, or site recovery, the pressure is on to get things moving again. But amidst the urgency, one threat remains critically underestimated: downed electrical wires.
These hidden dangers can energize everything from metal fences and water pipes to tree limbs, buildings, and even the ground itself. For construction teams, understanding the risks of downed wires isn’t just a safety best practice, it’s a potential life-saver.
Assume Everything is Live
The golden rule on any post-disaster site: treat every wire, cable, and utility line as energized until proven otherwise. Just because a power line isn’t sparking or making noise doesn’t mean it’s safe. In fact, it may still be transmitting high voltage, especially if circuits haven’t been shut down properly.
Downed lines can also energize unexpected objects. Reinforcement bars in pavement, metal manholes, and even damp soil can become live conductors. If your team encounters any damaged or suspicious electrical equipment, stop working immediately and contact utility personnel.
Safety Tips for Working Near Downed Lines
To minimize risk on the jobsite, follow these essential safety measures:
- Do not assume a downed line is dead. Visual appearance means nothing, lines can still carry voltage even when silent or unmoving.
- Avoid touching coated or insulated wires. These are not necessarily low-voltage lines and could carry high voltage just like bare conductors.
- Beware of low-hanging wires. Even if they don’t reach the ground, they may still be energized.
- Understand ground current spread. Electricity can radiate outward in all directions from a downed line’s point of contact, creating a voltage gradient that varies by the step.
- Never drive over downed lines. Vehicle tires aren’t guaranteed protection, and contact may energize the chassis.
- If you’re inside a vehicle touching a downed wire, stay put. Only exit if the vehicle is on fire, and if you must, jump clear without touching the vehicle and ground at the same time.
Build Safety into Recovery Plans
Construction firms must integrate power line safety into all post-disaster protocols, especially during cleanup or emergency rebuilds. This includes safety briefings, pre-job hazard analyses, and designating a safety lead to monitor electrical hazards on-site.
Power lines are one of the few jobsite hazards that can injure or kill without direct contact. Stay alert, train your team, and treat every downed wire like it’s live because it just might be.
For more construction-specific safety tips and risk management support, contact McHugh Insurance Group today.