Worker suffers burn injuries, says report
One worker got injured in Dalmeny, Saskatchewan after coming into close proximity with a high-voltage power line while operating a boom lift, according to a report.
The incident occurred last week as the individual was reportedly pruning trees near a 25-kilovolt distribution line, noted CTV News.
Dalmeny Fire Rescue responded to the scene early that afternoon following reports of a possible electrocution. Upon arrival, first responders discovered the man still suspended in a man lift approximately 30 feet off the ground, according to the report. Initial reports suggested a medical emergency, but it was quickly determined that the man had come into electrical proximity with the power line.
Fire Chief Tom Moody said the power line remained energised when crews arrived. Firefighters made verbal contact with the man and instructed him to remain still to prevent further contact with the line.
“He was able to sit up and we were able to caution him to stay very still, because any movement of the man lift could possibly cause a second contact with the energised line,” Moody told CTV News.
Warman Fire Department was called in for support, and SaskPower was contacted to shut down the power to allow for a safe rescue. Once the line was de-energised, the man was brought down and transferred to Medavie Ambulance. He was transported to Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon. His current condition is unknown, though Moody confirmed the individual suffered burn injuries and remained in hospital as of the last report.
Moody emphasised the risks associated with working near power lines, noting that high-voltage electricity can arc several feet. “You don’t even have to contact the line to get electrocuted,” he said. “They will arc up to several feet away from the power line, depending on the situation.”
Also, SaskPower issued a reminder to workers working near power lines.
“Contact or near-contact with electrical equipment and power lines is extremely dangerous,” the utility said in a statement quoted by CTV News. “Individuals working in or near SaskPower rights-of-way are reminded to always keep a safe distance from power lines and other equipment.”
The utility advises that the minimum safe distance from neighbourhood distribution lines is three metres, while the recommended distance from high-voltage transmission lines is at least six metres.
The incident is under review, and occupational health and safety officials are expected to investigate further to determine whether any additional safety protocols were breached.
