Excerpt from the OH&S Canada magazine
Sandy, the super-storm that ravaged the Eastern seaboard in October, is being blamed for the death of a worker in southern Ontario.
On October 31, 2012 at about 10 am, the employee of Bluewater Power Distribution was in a bucket truck repairing the power lines damaged by the storm when the worker was electrocuted.
“This terrible tragedy shows the dangers that hydro workers across Ontario face every day as they dedicate themselves to delivering and maintaining the electricity that keeps our homes and businesses functioning,” Chris Bentley, Ontario Minister of Energy says in a statement.
My opinion
I do wonder if the regulation governing MSAD (minimum safe approach distance) were followed? The amount of sway in the lines is something that all linemen or electricians need to know about.
For those not know the standard, please review section 188, subsection 2 of the Ontario ‘Construction’ regulation 213/91 which states,
1. 750 volts but not more than 150,000 volts – Minimum distance – 3 metres;
2. More than 150,000 volts but less than 250,000 volts – Minimum distance – 4.5 metres;
3. More than 250,000 volts – Minimum 6 metres.
Please ensure that your workers know all the associated hazards when dealing with electrical concerns. MSAD is just one of the sections that must be adhered to.
By the way, all four sectors have the same information, be it 1) ‘Healthcare’ 67/93, 2) ‘Mining and Mining Plants’ 854/90, 3) ‘Industrial’ 851/90, and of course ‘Construction Projects’ 213/91.
Remember – In Ontario, “ALL Accidents are Preventable”
HRS Group Inc. has a great team that can help you with all your health and safety needs including ‘Due Diligence’, ‘Electrical Safety Awareness’ and ‘Standard Operating Procedures’. Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259.
‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.
Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Advanced Level
VP & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.