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Safety Tips

Energy safety on the farm

Using energy safely in your barns and other buildings helps avoid potential injuries. Safety is always important, and proper maintenance of power lines and equipment will help you avoid injuries and possible interruptions of service.

Electrical facts you need to know to farm safely near power lines:

• Most overhead power lines have no protective insulation. Any physical or equipment contact with them will be dangerous
• Non-metallic materials such as lumber, tires, ropes, straw and hay, may conduct electricity depending on dampness and surface dirt.
• Electricity always seeks the easiest and shortest path to ground
• The flow of electricity into the ground around equipment or around a person in accidental contact with a power line, or surrounding a fallen power line itself, is dangerous to bystanders. The electricity could flow through the ground and electrocute those who come close

Check vegetation along your power lines

Help prevent unnecessary power outages and hazards around your property: have qualified contractors trim or remove vegetation and tree limbs that could interfere with your power lines.

Hydro One Networks clears the vegetation along its high-voltage "primary" lines — the main power lines that supply electricity to your property. However, if you own your own primary line, please remember that you are responsible for maintenance and vegetation control. You are also responsible for controlling vegetation along any "secondary" lines that run between the transformer and your premises or equipment.

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How to work safely near power lines

Careful preparation and proper equipment are a must when working near power lines. The safest route is to hire an experienced professional, especially for tasks such as trimming trees near power lines.

Ontario construction regulations require workers to stay at least 3 metres away from a live power line. Play it safe by expanding that margin whenever you're working with equipment that can fall or collapse, such as booms, cranes, ladders and scaffolds. Remember: better safe than sorry.

Look up, look down, look all around

Never assume an area — above or below you — is free of power cables. If you are raising a ladder or any other type of object, look up first to ensure there are no overhead cables. Find out about underground cables before you dig. It's the quick and simple way to avoid the possible consequences of contact with an electrical cable — electrocution, serious injury or power interruption. For assistance in locating underground cables, contact the Hydro One Networks Customer Communications Centre at 1-888-644-9376 or log on to the Self Service area and select "Service orders."

Don't risk life and limb near fallen power lines

Spring or winter storms can mean fallen power lines or damaged trees. Remember: approaching a downed line or attempting to clear storm damaged trees that are in contact, or close to, power lines could cause serious injury or death. Stay back at least 10 metres. Call Hydro One Networks power outage and emergency number at 1-800-434-1235 immediately. We'll assess the situation and turn the power off, if necessary.

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Inspected wiring is safe wiring

Does the wiring in your barns and outbuildings meet the Electrical Safety Code? There is only one way to get the answer — have your system checked by an Inspector from the Electrical Safety Authority. Inspections are necessary when wiring is installed in a new or existing building. If your wiring is old, it is a good idea to have it checked — it's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your electrical system is safe and sound.

Insist on an inspection if:

• You've had any wiring done for a renovation
• You've added a garage or other type of outbuilding
• You've installed a new furnace or environmental control system
• You've put in new appliances or equipment that requires electrical connections
• You've had or are having your electrical service upgraded

Remember, having an electrical inspection is for your safety and peace of mind — and it's required by law.

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