According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, heavy truck operators have a high number of workplace electrical fatalities. Remember your GOAL: Get Out And Look.
- 76% of heavy truck operator electrical fatalities occurred from contact with overhead power lines.
- Keep raised truck beds at least 10 feet away from all power lines.
- Have “look up” signage to remind operators to look above for overhead power lines or obstructions before lifting the body.
- Make sure your trucks have a warning system – alarms, flashing lights inside or outside the cab – that turns on when the body is raised.
- Know and maintain safe distances from power lines:
- If you contact an overhead power line or poke, stay in your truck, tell others to stay away, and call 911. Only exit your truck if there is smoke or fire.
In the Event of Fire or Smoke:
- Do not touch the ground and vehicle at the same time.
- Jump from the vehicle with your feet together.
- Shuffle at least 50-70 feet, or about 6 truck lengths, and avoid lifting your feet.
