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MSHA's Accident Prevention Program Miner's Tip Downed Power Line |
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| Mine Type: All Mines |
| Category: Electrical |
Downed electrical power lines can be the source of electrical shock while working at the mine or on your personal time.
- Never go near a downed or fallen electric power line. Always assume it is energized. Touching it could be fatal.
- Notify the mine electrician as soon as possible to disconnect the power.
- If you see someone touching a downed power line, don't try to rescue them yourself.
- If the downed power line comes into contact with a rail or fence, keep away. The power line could energize the rail or fence, creating a hazard along the entire surface.
- Electricity can spread outward through the ground in a circular shape from the point of contact. As you move away from the center large differences in voltages can be created.
- Never drive over downed power lines. Although they may not be energized, they can become entangled in your piece of equipment or vehicle.
- If contact is made with an energized power line while you are on or in a piece of equipment or vehicle, remain calm, and do not get out unless it is on fire. Call for help.
- If you must exit the equipment because of fire or other safety reasons, do your best to jump completely clear making sure you do not touch the equipment and the ground at the same time. Land with both feet together and shuffle away in small steps to minimize the path of electric current and avoid electrical shock. Be careful to maintain your balance. If one part of your body touches a high-voltage zone while another part of your body touches a low-voltage zone, you will become a conductor for electricity.
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If you have a tip you would like to pass on, you can e-mail it to zzMSHA-MinersTips@dol.gov. If your Miner's tip is selected, you will receive credit in this space. |
| Issued: | 01/08/2004 |
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| Tag # | AP2003- M100 |
