Safety on the Job

Electricity powers just about every workplace. Offices, construction sites, schools, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and even farms and ranches use electricity. Every person in a workspace needs to avoid the dangers of electricity. Follow the tips and remember these resources to stay safe around electricity in a workplace.

Overhead lines

Overhead power lines consist of distribution and transmission lines. Always be mindful of all power lines in the field. Always assume overhead lines are energized and hazardous.

• Locate all overhead power lines before a job is started.
• Keep equipment at least 10 feet away from all overhead power lines.
• If you need to work closer than 10 feet from power lines, contact Austin Energy at [NEED PHONE NUMBER]
• Do not work with water near power lines.
• For work with cranes and derricks, please see OSHA regulations for Cranes and Derricks in Construction.

Learn more about safety around overhead power lines.

Workers need to comply to state law regarding construction, reconstruction, operation, or maintenance around overhead lines. Learn about the Texas High Voltage Overhead Lines Act.

Underground lines

Underground lines include electric cable along with gas, water, wastewater, and communication lines. Damaging these have risks to public safety and can cause service interruptions. It is state law to contact Texas Excavation Safety System at 8-1-1 before digging. Learn more at our Call 8-1-1 Before You Dig page.

Safety Around Solar Systems

When working around buildings with installed solar systems, be aware that solar panels generate DC power and can cause electric shock.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Solar panels typically have an AC disconnect switch located near the electric meter or circuit breaker; even when disconnected from the home’s electrical system, the solar panels will still generate electricity.
• Beware of shock from contacting solar panel wiring.

Find out more about workplace solar PV electrical safety and photovoltaic safety for first responders from the Electrical Safety Institute.