Power lines are dangerous.  OSHA reports that 74 workers were killed by electrocution during 2014.   In June 2000 an installer working on a Carroll Advertising billboard lost his left arm and lower leg when a metal pole he was handling came into contract with a powerline.  Cliff Miller of M&S Signs tells a story about being lucky to be alive and to still have the use of the hands after he touched a 12,000 volt power line with a metal pole.

Insider discussed power line risks and safety procedures with Selective Structures Matt Schulz.  Selective Structures is a billboard fabrication and installation firm in Nashville which installs 350 billboards a year.

How do power lines wires pose a risk when doing billboard work?

Power lines don’t have insulation.  Electricity will flow out of the power line and through your body if you touch it and the electricity has a direct path to the ground.  High voltages also create a significant electric field which means that electricity can arc out of the wire and run down any crane or pole that is nearby, even without contact.

What happens if your body or an object you are holding comes into contact with a powerline?

When electricity enters the body it has to find a place to leave the body which could result in a loss of a limb but in some cases it will result in death.

What are some commonsense rules for avoiding electrocution while you are installing a sign or changing a vinyl?

• Use fiberglass rods.

• Use a qualified and insured contractor rather than doing the install yourself.

• Preview the area.  Look up.  Know where the nearest powerline is.

• Keep your distance from power lines.  Remember that you don’t need to touch a power line to get shocked.  On existing older structures there are many billboards that do not meet todays the minimum setback requirements.   If that’s the case just be very careful and take your time .  On new construction an onsite inspection should be done to determine the distance from the leading edge of face or outside catwalk to the power line.  Not every power line has the same setback . If you are not sure what your setback is contact your local power company . On most power poles there should be some type small placards at the base showing the voltage .  Here’s a chart showing recommended setbacks based on power voltage.

The OAAA is conducting a safety seminar September 12-13, 2016.  The seminar will review multiple legal issues including Electric Safety for employees.  The cost is $250 for OAAA members and $400 for non-members.  You can find out more about the seminar by clicking this link.

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