Installing a scaffold structure too close to an electricity supply network can place you at risk of serious injury.
Always plan site movements and actions with electrical safety in mind.
Remember that:
- electricity can jump across the air from power lines to a scaffold, or to a ladder
- the yellow and black danger sign fitted to all electricity supply equipment, especially overhead power line poles, warns of a serious hazard
- any inadvertent, uncontrolled contact can cause death
You should not work:
- less than 15 metres away from power line conductors or pylons
- less than nine metres away from poles
- very close to electricity conductors attached to a chimney, gable end wall or facia termination fitting
without informing the relevant Distribution Network Operator (DNO)
Vehicle safety
If an overhead line touches any part of your van, cab or load while you're inside:
- stay inside
- try to drive clear
- warn others to stay well clear
If this isn’t possible or the vehicle catches fire:
- jump well clear – don't climb down
- never touch the vehicle once you’re on the ground
- run well clear with leaping strides
- stay clear
Bear in mind that wires may re-energise without warning (this can happen automatically after a few seconds or remotely after several hours if the electricity company isn’t aware of the situation).
Call the network operator: 0800 587 3243
Download our Safety in Scaffolding as a PDF. <<download