When power line contact occurs, what is the recommended action?

• A. Stay in the cab and attempt to disengage
• B. Jump away from the crane
• C. Cut power at the source and leave
• D. Continue operation at a slower pace

Answer: (A)

When a crane touches a live power line, the immediate danger is electric shock or an arc flash. The safest course is to stay inside the cab because the seat and enclosure help keep you insulated from ground and from touching exposed metal. From there, inform your supervisor and the utility to shut the power off, and wait for a safe de-energization before any action is taken to disengage or move the crane. Jumping off the crane or trying to cut power yourself would put you at severe risk of electrocution, and continuing to operate keeps the line energized and could cause a dangerous arc or movement. Prioritize keeping everyone away and getting the line de-energized before any further steps.