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HS&E Operatives practice question: Electrical safety on site (3 of 7)

C. Safety A free question from our original HS&E Operatives practice exam. Try it, then open the answer to see why each option is right or wrong.

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A tipper lorry needs to drop its load near some overhead power lines that cross the site.

What should you assume about the lines?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. They are safe as long as the lorry's tyres are rubber
  2. B. They are only dangerous if the lorry actually touches them
  3. C. They are live, unless their owner has proved otherwise
  4. D. They are dead, because there are no warning signs
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Rubber tyres do not protect you. Electricity can jump across a gap to a raised tipper body.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. Electricity can arc across a gap, so getting close is dangerous too. That is why a safe clearance distance is set with the line owner.
  • C. Right: Right. HSE says assume overhead lines are live unless their owner proves otherwise. Work near them needs planning with the owner, plus barriers, goalposts and warning notices.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. A lack of signs does not mean the lines are dead. Always assume they are live.

Explanation

Treat overhead lines as live. Keep plant and vehicles well clear, using barriers and goalposts, and plan any work near them with the line owner.

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