Construction sites are home to tipper lorries, loaders, scaffold poles and metal ladders, all of which conduct electricity. Every year accidents occur as a result of accidental contact with overhead power lines.

At higher voltages electricity may jump short distances meaning equipment does not have to touch a power line for anyone standing on the ground touching the equipment to be severely affected.

• Mark the location of overhead power lines and underground cables on your site map.
• Arrange access points to the site to avoid crossing under or close to overhead power lines.
• Ensure that safe excavation techniques are used when working close to underground cables.
• Erect warning notices and goal posts to provide a visual and physical warning where regular crossing under overhead power lines is unavoidable.

For further guidance on safe construction a leaflet is available to download below

Safe construction - Advice about working near overhead power lines and underground cables (PDF 1.07 MB)