Workers and employers are cautioned that undetected feedback electrical energy in power lines is a constant hazard.
Electrocutions are the third leading cause of occupational deaths in the United States.
This Alert describes two recent cases of workers who died as a result of feedback electrical energy, which is one cause of occupational electrocutions. Additional case reports are referenced whose circumstances are almost identical to those described. Editors of appropriate trade journals, safety and health officials, and especially those who work on or in the vicinity of power lines are requested to bring these recommendations to the attention of the general public, managers of electrical utilities, and workers. Occupational electrocutions from all causes continue to be a serious problem and take a very large toll on the workforce of the United States. The damaged line was one of two power lines that served a residential area.