What are the safe working distances when operating machinery near overhead power lines?

2025-08-07

The safe working distance, also known as the minimum approach distance, is the closest a person or piece of equipment can get to a live power line. This distance is a non-negotiable safety measure defined by regulations like OSHA and is dependent on the voltage of the line. For example, a common rule is to maintain a 10-foot clearance for voltages up to 50 kV, with this distance increasing for higher voltages.

To prevent accidents, our company highly recommends the following:

  • Plan Ahead: Always contact the utility owner to confirm the voltage and clearance requirements before beginning work.

  • Utilize Spotters: A dedicated spotter is essential to provide constant guidance to equipment operators.

  • Use Physical Barriers: Install elevated warning lines, goalposts, or barricades to clearly mark the danger zone.

Our specialized OHTLstringingequipment.com/Power-Transmission-Line-Stringing-Equipment.html target='_blank'>power line tools and accessories are integral to executing these safety measures, enabling your team to work securely and efficiently around high-voltage infrastructure.

Get the latest price? We'll respond as soon as possible(within 12 hours)
For a better browsing experience, we recommend that you use Chrome, Firefox, Safari and Edge browsers.