If you need to get out to summon help or because of fire, jump out without touching any wires or the machine, keep your feet together, and hop to safety. When mechanical equipment is being operated near overhead power lines, employees standing on the ground may not contact the equipment unless it is located so that the required clearance cannot be violated even at the maximum reach of the equipment. To maximize his or her own safety, an employee should always use tools that work properly. Tools must be inspected before use and, those found questionable, removed from service and properly tagged. Tools and other equipment should be regularly maintained.
Inadequate maintenance can cause equipment to deteriorate, resulting in an unsafe condition.
Tools that are used by employees to handle energized conductors must be designed and constructed to withstand the voltages and stresses to which they are exposed. Use the personal protective equipment appropriate for the job that is performed. This equipment may consist of rubber insulating gloves, hoods, sleeves, matting, blankets, etc. These items must be inspected prior to each use and tested annually. When working near overhead power lines, the use of non-conductive wooden or fiberglass ladders is recommended.