Electrical Safety

If your line of service takes your employee near power lines or other utility equipment, Alliant Energy can loan your company a free video entitled Power Line Safety Essentials for Contractors. This video provides information on the hazards of working near electric power lines on a job site.

Your employees will learn the importance of avoiding contact with utility equipment and the steps to take before work begins. They'll also find out what to do if equipment or a co-worker contacts a power line.

For immediate reference, download our Contractor Safety Handbook [PDF] to review our company policies for working around underground and overhead power lines.

Electrical safety guidelines:

While the basics of electrical safety are common sense, it's easy to get distracted while using or working around electricity.

Check for safety hazards often, and make sure employees have the knowledge they need to avoid accidents.

• Check the cords and connections on all electrical equipment for signs of wear. Rewire or replace damaged items. Don't forget to check extension cords, power tools and display decorations.
• Never overload circuits with too many electrical devices. Blown fuses, dimming lights and other problems are a signal that something is wrong.
• Make sure your public and employee restrooms and kitchen areas have ground fault circuit interrupter outlets near the sinks. These inexpensive devices cut the risk of electrocution in half.
• Use extension cords only on a temporary basis, and make sure they're rated for the type of tool being used. Tape down cords that cross pathways to prevent someone from tripping over or yanking the cord from the wall. Never run cords under carpets or furniture.
• If an employee or contractor needs to shut off power at the service panel, have him or her flag the breaker or fuse to notify other occupants.
• Keep all tools and equipment in good repair - dirt and dampness increase the risk of shock. Always unplug an electrical device before cleaning or repairing.
• Always look out for overhead power lines when using ladders, poles or other devices. Contact with a power line is one of the most common workplace electrical accidents.
• Make sure employees working around electricity have good safety gear, including gloves, hard hat, eye protection and footwear.
• Avoid using items like "cheater" adapter plugs and inexpensive power strips. A small investment in replacing and adding outlets can prevent serious fires, equipment malfunction and personal accidents.
• Don't disguise or obstruct meters, transformers and other utility equipment with paint, landscaping or your own equipment. Our meter readers need access to ensure an accurate bill, and crews may need to find the equipment quickly in an emergency.
• Use extreme caution with standby generators and space heaters. A qualified professional should install these devices, and employees should be taught proper operation techniques. Never use a generator or space heater in an unventilated area.

Learn more about workplace electrical safety