Last Week’s Crane Incident Emphasizes Importance of Powerline Awareness

Last week, more than 2,000 homes and businesses across Oshawa experienced a power outage after a crane accidentally contacted a 13.8KV overhead powerline. This contact knocked down a section of our wires, leaving our team to complete difficult repairs under potentially dangerous conditions. Thankfully for the crews located on site, the crane was being operated remotely, preventing any injuries. However, significant equipment damage occurred, both to our infrastructure and to the contractors equipment.

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of powerline safety, especially on construction sites.

Understanding Ontario’s Limits of Approach

Ontario Regulation 213/91: Construction Projects outlines the safe “Limits of Approach” when working near electrical infrastructure. These standards specify the minimum safe distances required between workers, equipment, and energized powerlines. For powerlines between 750 volts and 15,000 volts (15 kV), like the 13.8KV line involved in this incident, the following minimum clearances must be maintained:

• Authorized Workers: At least 3 feet (0.9 metres)
• Equipment (cranes, backhoes, etc.): At least 10 feet (3 metres)

This regulation sets out the safe Limits of Approach for lines carrying different voltage levels, and full details can be found on the IHSA’s website.

Consistently following these guidelines is crucial in preventing incidents and ensuring safety on site.

Digging or Building? Always Call Ontario One Call First

If you’re planning any construction or landscaping work near powerlines, the safest first step is contacting Ontario One Call. This free service provides locates for underground utilities and important information about overhead lines.

Visit Ontario One Call or call 1-800-400-2255 at least five business days before starting work. It’s easy, free, and could save lives.

Essential Powerline Safety Tips for Everyone

• Look Up and Look Out: Always identify overhead powerlines before beginning work.
• Know Your Limits: Respect the safe distances set by the Limits of Approach guidelines.
• Stay Alert: Regularly remind your crew about powerline locations and safety measures.
• Ask for Help: Contact Oshawa Power directly if you’re uncertain or require safety guidance.

Together, Let’s Keep Oshawa Safe

Safety around electricity isn’t optional, it’s everyone’s duty. Working together, we can prevent power outages, equipment damage, and above all, keep each other safe in our community.

For additional safety resources, please visit our Safety & Outages Page.

Stay safe, Oshawa!