Public Safety: Scaffolders
Overhead electricity lines are erected above a statutory minimum height that normally puts them safely out of reach. But anyone carrying long scaffold poles or erecting / working on tall structures is at increased risk of contact with live conductors.
Before setting up any scaffolding, it is important to look out and look up!
Do not erect scaffolding within three metres of an overhead power line feeding houses, or within 15 metres of a high voltage overhead line, unless the local electricity company have confirmed it is safe to do so. Even outside these distances, take great care with long scaffold poles near overhead power lines.
- Always carry long scaffold poles horizontally, as low to the ground as is practicable
- Never fix scaffolding to power line wood poles, pylons or electrical equipment
- Never attempt to cover, remove or re-site power lines if they are in the way of your scaffolding - this must only be done by the local electricity company
Even if lines have been covered or 'shrouded' the covering is generally only designed to protect against inadvertent contact. Do not subject any lines to any heavy or prolonged contact / wear.
Our leaflets are provided free of charge. However, we would appreciate you letting us know where they are being used. Please send any feedback to richard.legros@energynetworks.org
