Move Over for Utility Workers

Our lineworkers face hazards every day while maintaining and restoring the electric system. In addition to following strict safety procedures around electricity, crews working near roadways must also take precautions such as placing safety cones and warning signs, wearing reflective clothing and, when necessary, using flaggers to direct traffic.

Motorists play an important role in keeping utility workers safe. North Carolina’s Move Over Law requires drivers to move over one lane, when possible, for utility vehicles displaying flashing amber lights. If changing lanes is not safe, drivers should significantly reduce their speed and proceed with caution.

As the days grow shorter and darkness arrives earlier, Halifax EMC crews may still be working along roadsides during evening commutes. When you see utility workers on the side of the road, slow down, stay alert, and move over whenever possible. A little extra caution can help prevent serious
accidents and protect those working to provide reliable electric service. Our lineworkers work in all kinds of conditions to keep the lights on for our members, and their safety depends on all of us. Please do your part by giving crews the space they need to work safely, staying focused behind the wheel, and encouraging others to do the same. Together, we can help ensure every crew member returns home safely to their family at the end of the day.

Harvest Season Brings Electrical Hazards

Fall also marks harvest season, one of the busiest times of the year for many farmers. Large equipment, long workdays and overhead power lines can create dangerous situations if proper precautions are not taken.

The most important safety tip is simple: Look up and look out for power lines. Always be aware of their location in relation to your equipment and maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from all electrical lines.

We are pleased to see broadband service continuing to expand across our rural communities, bringing more opportunities for work, education, healthcare, and connectivity. As communication companies continue to build out fiber networks, they have added 60 miles of new cable throughout our service area, often attached to existing utility poles. While this growth has many benefits, it also creates additional hazards for farmers and others operating large equipment near power and communication lines. Before entering a field or property, take a moment to look for any new attachments that may have been added since your last visit. If you notice a power line or communication line that is sagging, damaged, or hanging unusually low, please contact Halifax EMC immediately at 252-445-5111. Reporting potential hazards right away can help prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.

Even with today’s advanced auto-guidance and GPS steering systems, operators must remain focused on their surroundings. Technology can help with navigation, but it cannot replace situational awareness. Slow down, stay alert and take breaks when needed to remain engaged and attentive throughout the workday.

Additional Harvest Safety Tips

• Use a spotter when operating large equipment near power lines.
• Check the height of machinery to ensure adequate clearance.
• Use extra caution when extending augers or raising grain truck beds near overhead lines.
• Lower extensions and attachments before moving equipment.
• Be mindful of guy wires, which are not energized but can bring down live power lines if struck.
• Never attempt to move or raise a power line to gain clearance.

If Contact Occurs

If equipment comes into contact with a power line, stay inside the equipment and immediately call 911. Warn others to stay away and wait for utility personnel to de-energize the line.

Only leave the equipment if there is an immediate danger, such as fire. In that situation, jump clear with your feet together, making sure not to touch the equipment and the ground at the same time. Then hop away with your feet together until you are a safe distance from the area.

A Shared Commitment to Safety

Whether you’re driving past a utility crew or working in the field during harvest, taking a few extra moments to slow down, stay aware and follow safety guidelines can save lives. This fall, Halifax EMC encourages everyone to make safety a top priority and help ensure that our utility workers, farmers and community members return home safely each day.