Ladders and Power Lines

Ladders are great tools for cleaning gutters, painting, roof repairs, putting up antennas. But sometimes the work areas also include electric lines -- usually the drop lines from nearby utility poles, and sometimes even nearby overhead utility power lines. And these lines don't mix with ladders.

Here are some tips to keep you safe:

Keep all ladders and other tools in the SAFE ZONE, at least 10 feet from any power lines.
Never count on a power line to be insulated, no matter what it looks like. Most utility power lines are not insulated.
Don't count on a wooden ladder to protect you. Wood will conduct electricity. So will wet, dirty and defective ladders of any kind. Fiberglass ladders are best, but even they are no guarantee of safety.
Before you use a ladder, check the area carefully for power lines or other electrical equipment. Pick a safe route to carry the ladder to the work area, then carry it horizontally--never upright. Put it up only where you have to work. Always make sure that, if the ladder fell, it would not contact any power lines or other electrical equipment.
When you're on a ladder, balance and control aren't at their best. Be careful with pipes, conduits, gutters, antennas and other long objects. Never hold them in a position where they could fall onto a power line. Remember that distances are deceiving from the top of a ladder and make sure you don't lift an antenna or other object up into an overhead line.

Safety Brochures

A brochure about safety around power lines is available to the public at no charge. To request brochures, send us an e-mail with your address and the quantity needed. Brochures are available in English and Spanish. You also can view or print a PDF version in English and Spanish (large files; allow time for download).

Electrical Safety Campaigns

If you'd like to organize an electrical safety campaign for your organization, contact the National Electrical Safety Foundation for more information, or contact us.