Staying Safe with Ladders Near Electricity
The Problem
Ladders and electricity are a dangerous combination. Metal ladders or incorrectly positioned ladders can create a direct path to earth if they come into contact with live power lines or electrical equipment. Even worse, electrical current can arc across several metres, causing injury without direct contact. Today, we’ll discuss how to prevent these hazards by choosing the correct ladder, positioning it properly, and taking additional precautions.
Identify the Hazards
- Direct Contact: Using conductive ladders near energised lines.
- Accidental Contact: Handling long materials (like metal gutters or cables) that come into contact with power lines.
- Electrical Arcing: Current can 'jump' several metres if clearance distances are insufficient.
- Wet Conditions: Wooden ladders can become conductive if they are waterlogged or wet.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
1. Choose the Right Ladder:
- Use Non-Conductive Side Rails:
Fibreglass or plastic-reinforced ladders are ideal for work near electricity because they don’t conduct current. - Wooden Ladders:
Dry, well-maintained wooden ladders are acceptable, but avoid them if they are wet or deteriorating.
2. Safe Setup Practices:
- Maintain Clearance Distances:
Keep ladders well away from power lines to avoid any contact if the ladder shifts.
Take into account the ladder’s full reach and potential movement. - Be Mindful of Materials:
Avoid handling long, conductive materials like metal lengths or piping near overhead lines.
Reposition the ladder if needed to stay clear of hazards.
3. Avoid Electrical Arcing:
- Safe Distances:
Electricity can arc several metres depending on the voltage.
Maintain a minimum of 4 metres clearance from overhead power lines, or follow guidance from the asset owner (such as the power company). - Consult Your Supervisor or PCBU Representative:
Always check site-specific clearance requirements and procedures before starting work.
4. Additional Safety Measures:
- Isolation Procedures:
Follow lock-out or permit-to-work procedures if working near live equipment. - Coordinate with Utilities:
If overhead lines are within reach, contact the utility provider to install barriers, insulators, or arrange temporary shutdowns.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a job site, a worker used a metal ladder near an overhead power line. While repositioning the ladder, it contacted the energised line. The worker received serious electrical burns. This incident could have been avoided by using a fibreglass ladder and maintaining the required distance.
Employee Responsibilities
- Always use non-conductive ladders when working near electricity.
- Inspect ladders to ensure they are clean, dry, and in good condition.
- Maintain safe distances from all power lines.
- Be cautious when handling materials that could bridge to a power source.
- Report any damaged equipment or unsafe conditions immediately.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide suitable non-conductive ladders and equipment for electrical work.
- Train workers in the risks of working near electricity and safe ladder practices.
- Coordinate with utilities when de-energising lines or installing protective barriers is necessary.
Discussion & Questions
- “Has anyone worked near electrical lines with ladders? What precautions did you take?”
- “Are there any additional tips or concerns we should discuss about ladder safety near electricity?”
Encourage everyone to share experiences and raise any concerns.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to using the correct ladder, maintaining safe distances, and inspecting our equipment before every job. If you are ever unsure, stop and seek guidance before continuing.
Wrap-Up
Electricity can be deadly. Even without direct contact, arcing can cause serious harm. By using non-conductive ladders, maintaining safe distances, and planning ahead, we can prevent serious incidents. Thank you for prioritising safety.
Standards Overview
WorkSafe NZ’s Good Practice Guidelines for electrical safety and working at height require:
- Use of non-conductive ladders where work is near live electrical lines.
- Maintenance of minimum approach distances (typically 4m from power lines, unless isolated).
- Planning and controls must be in place when working near electrical services.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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