Safety checklist — Overhead power lines
Approach distances and work near high-voltage lines. Compliant with Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Before work
11 items- ✓
Overhead lines identified on site — voltage determined (HQ or utility)Critical
ℹ️ Contact with a line = instant fatal electrocution
- ✓
Minimum approach distance determined per voltageCritical
ℹ️ < 125 kV = 3 m, 125–250 kV = 5 m, 250–550 kV = 8 m (CSTC art. 5.2)
- ✓
De-energization or protection request submitted to Hydro-Québec if needed
- ✓
Signal person designated if equipment or loads near lines
- ✓
Visual markers (flags, tape) installed to mark danger zone
- ✓
Work plan approved — equipment routes planned to avoid lines
- ✓
Approach distance respected AT ALL TIMES — includes tools and materialsCritical
ℹ️ Arc flash can occur BEFORE physical contact — respect distance
- ✓
Crane and elevated equipment: boom + load + sling within clearance zone
- ✓
Scaffold and ladder: top end at safe distance from line
- ✓
If accidental contact: stay in cab, do not exit
ℹ️ Exiting = creating a ground fault path — electrocution risk
- ✓
If evacuation needed: jump clear with feet together, away from machine, without touching both
After work
3 items- ✓
Markers and signage removed if work completed
- ✓
Hydro-Québec confirmation if de-energization was in place — re-energization authorized
- ✓
Incidents or near-contacts reported mandatorily
More checklists — Cross-cutting Situations
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Risks and prevention — Overhead power lines
Contact with overhead lines is a leading cause of fatal electrocution in construction. The CSTC and Electrical Code set minimum approach distances that vary by line voltage. For distribution lines (up to 25 kV), the minimum is generally 3 metres.
All crane, lift, or boom-equipment operations must be planned considering line locations. The site supervisor must identify lines and communicate distances to all workers. Warning devices (proximity detectors, signage) may complement control measures but do not replace distance compliance.
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