WorkSafeBC

As construction and seasonal work ramps up across B.C., we’re joining BC Hydro to remind employers and workers that electrical safety needs to be part of every job plan, not just for electricians.

WorkSafeBC data shows that from 2015 to 2025, about 74% of claims related to contact with power lines involved workers in non-electrical occupations, including construction workers, painters, window washers, surveyors, and crane or heavy equipment operators.

Before starting work near overhead or underground power lines:

✅ Know the requirements and minimum approach distances
✅ Look up, look down, and identify overhead and underground lines
✅ Stay at least 3 metres, or 10 feet, away from power lines. Depending on the task, a greater distance may be required under the Occupational Health & Safety Regulations.
✅ Click or call BC 1 Call before disturbing soil
✅ Use the right equipment: Never use metal or aluminum ladders near power lines. Fiberglass ladders reduce risk but do not remove the hazard.
✅ Treat downed or damaged lines as live. Stay back 10 metres, or 33 feet, and call 911

Learn more about worker and employer responsibilities in our latest news release: http://ms.spr.ly/6183vZx89

Securing loads properly is an important part of keeping workers and the public safe on B.C. roads.

Join Road Safety at Work for a free Ask an Expert Q&A on load securement, where industry experts will answer questions, discuss common cargo securement mistakes, and share practical guidance for preventing incidents.

Register for the May 13 session below: ⬇️

Join our first Ask an Expert Q&A!
Here’s your chance to attend a live and interactive conversation with industry experts in road safety.
This session’s topic is all about load securement and preventing common cargo securement mistakes.
If you attended our most recent webinar on the topic, we’ll cover questions we couldn’t get to plus address real scenarios that matter to you.
📆 May 13
⏲️ 11:00 AM
📍 https://zoom.us/webinar/register/2117761076646/WN__b3Z3VncSOunNJuFWkrZQA
Registration is always free.