Request for Assistance in Preventing Electrocutions during Work with ScaffoldsNear Overhead Power Lines

摘要

The alert described 13 deaths that occurred in six separate incidents whenworkers erected or moved scaffolds that came into contact with energized, overhead power lines, or when they contacted overhead power lines while using conductive tools or materials from scaffolds. Recommendations are offered for employers, managers, supervisors, and workers where scaffolds and conductive tools or materials are used near overhead power lines in an attempt to reduce the hazard and prevent these unnecessary deaths. All persons should comply with the current OSHA regulations for such work. Scaffolds should not be used or moved within specified minimal clearance distances from exposed, energized power lines. Employers should review existing safety programs and revise them where needed. Employers should develop and implement safety programs where none exist. Managers and workers should conduct initial and daily surveys at the worksite before beginning any job. Employers should inform workers about the hazards present. Employers should notify the utility company when scaffords must be erected or moved so that these lines can be deenergized. Before a scaffold is erected or moved, workers must consider several safety factors. Clearance between the power lines and the scaffold should be monitored.