Lifting Near Overhead Power Lines

Crane jibs, loads, and lifting accessories contacting overhead power lines cause instant fatal electrocution.
Electricity can arc across an air gap of several metres at high voltages without direct contact.
HSE guidance GS6 requires a minimum safe clearance distance that increases with voltage level.
For 11kV lines the minimum clearance is 3 metres; for 132kV lines it is 6 metres from any part of the crane.
Goal posts, height restrictors, and physical barriers are used to prevent crane approach to power lines.
The lift plan must specifically address overhead power line proximity and identify the safe working envelope.
The crane operator may not be able to see the power lines from the cab during complex lifting sequences.
A banksman or signaller must monitor clearance and warn the operator if approach limits are near.
De-energisation or re-routing of power lines is the safest option where cranes must work close to lines.
LOLER 1998 and HSE guidance GS6 both require formal controls for lifting near overhead power lines.

Instant death	Contact between a crane and overhead power lines causes instant fatal electrocution of the operator and ground workers.
Arc flash distance	High voltage electricity arcs across air gaps without contact. Even approaching lines without touching them is lethal.
Legal requirement	HSE guidance GS6 and LOLER 1998 require specific controls, clearances, and planning for lifts near power lines.

Do

Don't

Identify all overhead power lines on the site plan before planning any lifts.
Maintain the minimum safe clearance distance specified in GS6 at all times.
Install goal posts or physical barriers to prevent crane approach to power lines.
Include power line proximity controls in every lift plan near overhead lines.
Appoint a banksman to monitor clearance and warn the operator continuously.
Request de-energisation or diversion of power lines where clearances cannot be maintained.
Brief the crane operator on the exact location and voltage of all nearby lines.
Mark safe working zones on the ground to show the crane operating envelope.
Stop the lift immediately if clearance to power lines is in any doubt.
Contact the DNO before any lifting work within the approach distance of lines.

DON'T operate a crane under or near overhead power lines without a specific plan.
DON'T rely on visual judgement alone to estimate clearance from power lines.
DON'T assume the crane jib, load, or slings will stay clear during the full lift.
DON'T move the crane with the jib raised when travelling near overhead lines.
DON'T touch the crane or load if it contacts a power line; stay clear and call 999.
DON'T remove goal posts or height restrictors during lifting operations.
DON'T lift in the vicinity of power lines without a banksman monitoring clearance.
DON'T assume low voltage lines are safe to approach; even 230V is lethal.
DON'T use the crane as an earth path if contact occurs; stay in the cab.
DON'T start lifting without confirming the voltage and clearance requirements.

See also: Overhead Power Lines | Lift Plan Requirements

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