Improvements in safe working practices near overhead lines

Injuries and deaths resulting from cranes or other equipment contacting overhead power lines occur all too frequently despite regulations that are intended to prevent such accidents. Historical data are explored and major underlying causes of such accidents are identified. Regulatory safeguards are considered, together with proposals for improving safety by making overhead lines more conspicuous. An appendix provides suggested text that can be adapted for the safety section of construction specifications and operational manuals.