HARRISBURG – As part of enhanced statewide safety efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today urged homeowners and contractors to use extra caution for potential electrical hazards while at home or at work, while also avoiding the possibility of accidents, injuries and service disruptions.
According to data compiled by the PUC’s Safety Division, an average of six Pennsylvania residents are killed and 24 people are seriously injured every year because of accidental contact with utility company power lines. Roofers, crane operators and other construction workers are at the greatest risk, but homeowners working with ladders and poles generate the second-highest number of incidents.
“Spring is a time of year for increased interest in home improvement projects, but safety needs to be at the forefront of any work you may be considering – to help protect yourself and your family, and to avoid further strains on the resources of utilities and first responders,” said PUC Commissioner Andrew Place. “Also, a sharp increase in teleworking and more homebound activities raises additional concerns about home electric safety.”
The PUC stressed that the best way to protect yourself, your families and your co-workers against the possibility of death, injury, service interruptions or costly repairs is to identify hazards and develop proper safety plans before any work begins. Anyone planning work around power lines should check with their local utility for information about making the work area safer.
Also, the Commission encouraged homeowners and businesses to postpone non-essential work near power lines – noting that delaying the start of those projects can help safeguard against accidental damage and prevent unplanned outages during this stressful time, while also allowing utility crews to focus their resources on maintaining essential services.
Electric Safety Tips
The Commission offered the following electric safety tips for working around the home:
“The PUC and Pennsylvania’s utilities are committed to safety, and assistance is available to make work areas near electric utilities safe,” Commissioner Place stated. “For the safety of everyone involved – from contractors and homeowners to utility company workers and bystanders – we urge people to review important safety information on the Electric Safety page of the PUC website and contact the local utility company when planning any project.”
Home Electric Safety Tips
For residents either teleworking or virtually learning from home, the Commission provides the following general electric safety tips:
