OSHA Downed Electrical Wires Fact Sheet

Working Safely Around Downed Electrical Wires Electrical hazards multiply for workers involved in cleanup and recovery efforts following major disasters and weather emergencies. Life-threatening danger exists around downed and low-hanging electrical wires which can still be energized following a storm. Safety First Always consider all electrical equipment, lines and conductors to be energized. If you notice downed wires or damaged electrical equipment, contact appropriate utility personnel if you can. Circuits do not always turn off when a power line falls into a tree or onto the ground. Reloaders automatically try to reset circuits and restore power when it is interrupted. Even if electric lines are not sparking or humming, fallen electric lines can electrocute you if you touch them or the ground nearby.  Features Poster size 11” x 17” Poster is available in English and in Spanish Front and back sides are laminated Quality printing in full color Attorney Approved Recycled Paper Made in USA Poster content is guaranteed to be up-to-date