Contact with an overhead power line can cause property damage, serious injury or even loss of life. Before doing any work near overhead power lines, know the location of all power lines on or near your farm.
- Point them out to anyone who helps with farm activities such as employees, temporary workers and family members, including children.
What you need to remember while working around electricity
- Electricity seeks every available path to the ground. When a person or other objects get too close or touch a power line, it creates an instant flow of electricity.
- Non-metallic materials such as lumber, tree limbs, tires, ropes and hay can conduct electricity.
- Plan your route in advance to avoid passing under power lines.
- If you approach a downed power line, keep a safe distance away (at least 10 metres). The area around, including the soil, equipment and other objects could be energized. Report the fallen line by calling us at 310-2220.
Do not clear storm-damaged trees, limbs or other debris that are touching power lines. Do not cut down trees or prune limbs that may fall into power lines. Call us at 1-888-757-6937 to report the situation or submit a request for tree trimming.
What you need to remember while working with electrical equipment
- Regularly inspect wiring, cords, plugs, tools and equipment for obvious external damage and look out for shorts and sparks in fittings.
- Avoid using electrical equipment outdoors in wet conditions. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) wherever water and electricity may come into contact with each other.
- Do not overload circuits by plugging in too many electrical appliances or equipment at one time.
- Do not remove guards or covers from electrical equipment and appliances.
- Ensure extension cords are positioned in work areas so they do not create a slip or trip hazard and are not exposed to physical damage.
- Hire a Saskatchewan licenced electrical contractor to install or repair electrical wiring, switches, fuses or electrical machinery and equipment.
