Rules to live by

• Do NOT assume that a downed conductor

is safe simply because it is on the ground

or it is not sparking.

• Do NOT assume that all coated, weatherproof or insulated wire is just telephone,

television or fiber-optic cable.

• Low-hanging wires still have voltage potential even if they are not touching the ground.

So, “don’t touch them.” Everything is energized until tested to be de-energized.

• Never go near a downed or fallen electric

power line. Always assume that it is energized. Touching it could be fatal. 

• Electricity can spread outward through the

ground in a circular shape from the point

of contact. As you move away from the

center, large differences in voltages can be

created. 

• Never drive over downed power lines.

Assume that they are energized. And, even

if they are not, downed lines can become

entangled in your equipment or vehicle. 

• If contact is made with an energized power

line while you are in a vehicle, remain calm

and do not get out unless the vehicle is on

fire. If possible, call for help. 

• If you must exit any equipment because of

fire or other safety reasons, try to jump

completely clear, making sure that you do

not touch the equipment and the ground at

the same time. Land with both feet together and shuffle away in small steps to minimize the path of electric current and avoid

electrical shock. Be careful to maintain your

balance.

Safety First

Above all else, always consider all equipment,

lines and conductors to be energized. Be

cautious and if you notice downed wires or

damaged electrical equipment, contact

appropriate utility personnel. Remember

that circuits do not always turn off when a

power line falls into a tree or onto the

ground. Even if they are not sparking or

humming, fallen power lines can kill you if

you touch them or even the ground nearby. 

Energy

Downed wires can energize other objects,

including fences, water pipes, bushes and

trees, buildings, telephone/CATV/fiber optic

cables and other electric utilities. Even manhole castings and reinforcement bars (re/bar)

in pavement can become energized by

downed wires. During storms, wind-blown

objects such as canopies, aluminum roofs,

siding, sheds, etc., can also be energized by

downed wires.

Backfeed

When electrical conductors are inadvertently

energized by other energy sources, backfeed

occurs. Some of those sources include:

• Circuit ties/switch points

• Lightning

• Generators

• Downstream events

Simply testing for energy sources is not sufficient since hazardous electrical events can

happen without warning. Ensure that proper

lockout/tagout procedures are always followed.

FactSheet

Working Safely Around Downed 

Electrical Wires

Electrical hazards exist in some form in nearly all occupations. However, those 

hazards multiply for workers involved in cleanup and recovery efforts following

major disasters and weather emergencies. One particular life-threatening danger

exists around downed and low-hanging electrical wires.
This is one in a series of informational fact sheets highlighting OSHA programs, policies or 

standards. It does not impose any new compliance requirements. For a comprehensive list of 

compliance requirements of OSHA standards or regulations, refer to Title 29 of the Code of Federal

Regulations. This information will be made available to sensory impaired individuals upon request.

The voice phone is (202) 693-1999; teletypewriter (TTY) number: (877) 889-5627.

U.S. Department of Labor

www.osha.gov

(800) 321-OSHA

For more complete information:

DOC 7/2005