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| Overhead Power Line Clearances |
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| Everyone’s resources have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can help prevent locate delays by pre-marking your proposed dig area in white and notifying 811 of your planned excavation with as much lead time as is possible: up to 10 days in Pennsylvania. To learn more about Duquesne Light Company’s response to COVID-19, click here. |
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| Maintaining the proper clearance from overhead power lines is not only critical to a safe work environment, it’s the law. Follow these tips to work safely around power lines and always call Duquesne Light Company at 412-393-7100 when you don't know the required clearance distances or you must work closer than the law allows. |
Order our complimentary worker safety training kit on the Duquesne Light's
e-SMARTworkers website. |
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| The Deal on Clearances |
| Here are some key rules to remember: |
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When working with ladders or long tools: Keep yourself and all tools and equipment at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines carrying up to 50 kV. |
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When cranes and derricks are used in construction: Keep the crane boom and load at least 22 feet away from lines up to 350 kV and 50 feet away from lines greater than 350 kV but at or less than 1,000 kV. Always assume the line is energized, and allow nothing closer unless you have confirmed with the utility owner/operator that the line has been de-energized. |
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If voltage is unknown, contact Duquesne Light Company before work begins. |
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As voltage increases, clearance distances also increase. For specific requirements, consult Duquesne Light Company and osha.gov. |
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Clearly mark boundaries with tape, signs, or barricades to keep workers and equipment the required distance away. |
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| If you must work closer than regulations allow, contact Duquesne Light Company at 412-393-7100 well in advance so safety arrangements can be made. |
| Don’t Forget |
| Power lines are not insulated. Always consider them energized and dangerous. Any contact with overhead lines could cause serious injury to equipment operators and ground crew. |
| Would You Like to Know More? |
| Additional utility personnel safety tips, case studies, instructional videos and training tools can all be found, at no charge to you, on Duquesne Light Company's e-SMARTworkers website. |
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