Occupations most at-risk in fatal overhead power line incidents: Using osha data to get a better understanding

This paper examines populations injured as a result of contact with overhead power lines. Injured workers are grouped by industry and occupation. Industries with the highest number of fatal overhead power line electrical injuries are, in order, “... Power line construction”, “Electrical work”, “Roofing”, “Electric services (utilities)”, “Ornamental shrub and tree services”, “Asbestos and lead paint removal services”, “Painting”, and “Concrete work”. The occupations with the highest number of fatal overhead power line injuries are, in order, “Electrical power installers and repairers”, “Construction laborers”, “Supervisors: electricians and power transmission installers”, “Laborers, except construction”, Construction trades, n.e.c.”, “Painters”, “Carpenters”, “Roofers”, “Electricians”, and “Truck drivers”. Changes in the way Bureau of Labor Statistics data is recorded for electrical injuries have rendered it less useful for hazard analysis and mitigation in the years after 2010. Occupational Safety and Health Administration fatal overhead power line electrical injury data ranges from 22-69% of the number of cases reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration data also contains narratives that include many incident details such as voltage, equipment involved, and personal protective equipment use and often allows a judgment whether safe work practices were used.