IHSA’s Guideline for Working Near Overhead Electrical Powerlines and Equipment

Recently the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA) in partnership with IHSA’s Labour-Management Network published the IHSA Guideline for Working Near Overhead Electrical Wires and Equipment on Construction Projects, which provides powerline safety information to protect workers from electrical hazards. The Electrical Safety Authority was also included in the development of the guideline.

The guideline targets non-electrical construction workers (including roofers, painters, carpenters and other trades) that work outdoors near overhead powerlines. The objective of providing non-electrical workers with this guideline is to help eliminate or reduce the potential for accidental powerline contacts and near misses. The guideline informs construction workers on the safe limits of approach to overhead powerlines, as required in Ont. Reg. 213/91 Construction Projects subsection 188(2), and recommends a safe minimum distance of 1 metre (3.3 feet) below 750 volts.

Guideline for Working near Overhead Electrical Powerlines & Equipment on Construction Projects (PDF)