Best practices for working in proximity to overhead powerlines

This paper will begin by detailing the powerline contact statistics from Ontario and other parts of Canada using the latest metrics and dashboards. This will back up and verify the USA research presented last year at the 2012 ESW. The culture for those working in proximity needs to be changed as these statistics are just not acceptable. A very practical and innovative show and tell segment will be provided with effective pictures and actual field examples of the hazardous distribution equipment to assist with voltage level verification for the classic Limits of Approach tables as used in current transmission and distribution legislation and standards. These visual equipment examples will be tied into some of the tasks for those who work in proximity to high voltage conductors. This paper will demonstrate how selected current best practices within the “qualified powerline trades” could and should be used and adapted to provide awareness and superior job planning principles for all workers in proximity to overhead power lines. This will include the Ontario legislative E&USA Rule Book [1], CAN/ULC S-801 [2] and the IEEE C2 - NESC [3] standards. It is felt that these principles could be used to accelerate in particular the human factor principles for those working in proximity to overhead power lines.