High Voltage Risks Around Overhead Power Lines – Stay Safe When Working at Height
At JMS, safety is our number one priority, especially when working near one of the most dangerous hazards on site: overhead power lines. IPAF’s annual “High Voltage!” campaign highlights the life-threatening risks MEWP operators face when working close to electricity, and we’re proud to support their vital message.
The Danger of Overhead Power Lines
Electricity can arc or jump across gaps, even if the MEWP isn’t directly touching a line. The consequences of contact are often fatal. IPAF’s Andy Access short video above reminds all operators: always keep a safe distance and never assume a line is insulated or safe to touch.
What IPAF Recommends
IPAF’s updated guidance, “The Safe Use of MEWPs in the Vicinity of Power Lines,” outlines clear steps to reduce risk:
- Always identify and mark overhead lines before starting work.
- Maintaining a minimum safe distance. IPAF recommends at least 6 meters (20 feet) unless the line has been isolated by the utility company.
- Never override safety systems or bypass alarms.
- Use spotters and ensure everyone on site is aware of the danger.
If in doubt, always seek advice from the local electricity provider before beginning work.
Training and Awareness
Only fully trained and authorised operators should use MEWPs near power lines. JMS offers comprehensive IPAF operator training, including specific modules on working safely around high voltage environments. Visit our Training Page to book a course or refresh your knowledge.
Stay Safe When Working at Height
By following IPAF’s guidance, and investing in proper training, we can all reduce the risk of high voltage incidents and protect our teams.
Let’s keep every job safe, because when it comes to power lines, there’s no second chance.
IPAF Toolbox Talk: Avoiding Contact with Power Lines
IPAF provides a free, downloadable toolbox talk on avoiding power line contact, useful for site briefings and reinforcing the High Voltage! campaign.
This resource is intended to equip managers, supervisors, operators, spotters, and rescue teams with practical discussion points to prevent electrocution, shocks, fires, or explosions from MEWP-power line incidents, even via arcing without direct contact. This is intended as a short, focused session on site-specific risks, held regularly to build awareness and worker commitment. It does not replace the requirement for full perator training. It references: ISO 18893 standards, IPAF Operators Safety Guide (via ePAL app), “Keep clear of cables” poster, and full “Safe Use of MEWPs Near Power Lines” guidance.
Download it from IPAF’s resource library to integrate into your safety routines.
Download IPAF’s Andy Access Resources
- Free Andy Access poster – Keep Clear of Cables
- Free IPAF Toolbox Talk – Avoiding contact with power lines
- The Safe Use of MEWPs in The Vicinity of Power Lines
Need Advice? Contact JMS Powered Access
Our Training Division can also assist with any IPAF training on powered access equipment.
