Why Electrical Safety is Crucial on the Farm:
Farm environments combine challenging conditions- moisture, dust, and heavy machinery – that can increase the risk of electrical hazards. A small oversight, like a damaged wire or improper grounding, can lead to severe shocks, fires, or even fatalities. Proactive safety checks and maintenance are non-negotiable for protecting lives, equipment, and property.
Understanding Electrical Basics for Farm Safety:
Familiarity with these basic electrical principles can help everyone on the farm stay safe!
Voltage: The force that drives electrical current
Current (Amperage): The amount of electricity flowing through the circuit
Resistance: The factor that slows or stops current flow; higher resistance means less electricity flows through.
Grounding: Electricity always seeks the ground. Proper grounding directs excess electricity safely away from people and equipment.
11 Essential Electrical Safety Practices:
Inspect Electrical Cords and Outlets Regularly:
Check for frayed cords, exposed wires, or loose connections. If you notice any damaged components replace them immediately to prevent shocks or fires.
Watch Out for Overhead Power Lines:
When you are on your farm identify all powerlines and ensure the equipment stays at least 3 meters (10 feet) away. Remember that electricity can jump from the power line to nearby objects, which is why it is important to keep your distance.
Beware of Downed Power Lines:
If you spot any downed lines, stay at least 10 metres or 33 feet away from them. Call 911, and your local utility company to report the hazard.
Ensure Proper Grounding:
Make sure that your farm’s equipment and electrical systems are correctly grounded. Check ground fault circuit interrupters monthly to ensure that they are working properly.
Educate Workers on Electrical Emergency Protocols:
Make sure that all family members and employees are trained in how to disconnect power sources during emergencies. A list of emergency contacts and numbers should be readily accessible to all people on the farm in case of emergencies.
Handle Ladders, Poles, and Pipes with Care:
As addressed earlier in this blog, electricity can jump to nearby objects. To avoid electricity jumps, always carry large items horizontally with two people to reduce the risk of contact with overhead wires.
Maintain Safe Equipment Use Around Power Lines:
Before raising or moving any farm machinery, irrigation equipment, or ladders, check for overhead lines. Make sure you keep a safe distance, as even non-metallic materials (like wood or hay) can conduct electricity—placing you at risk of hazards.
Upgrade to Weather-Appropriate Electrical Components:
Use outlets, switches, and fixtures rated for the specific conditions they’ll face, such as outdoor exposure or dusty environments.
Avoid Overloading Circuits and Panels:
Distribute electrical loads evenly across circuits to prevent overloading, overheating, and failures. Ensure you maintain at least one metre or three feet of clearance around all electrical panels to avoid the risk of fires.
Stay Safe in Vehicles During Electrical Contact:
If your vehicle encounters a power line, STAY INSIDE, call 911, and wait for a utility worker to confirm there is no risk to your safety. When making sure all personnel, including safety workers, stay at least 10 meters or 33 feet away from the vehicle to ensure that they do not place themselves at risk of shock.
Consult Licensed Professional for Inspections:
Hire a licensed electrical contractor to inspect and maintain your wiring, outlets, and equipment. If you have any concerns about specific items, address them with your contractor.
Special Tips for Power Line Safety:
Plan: Before raising equipment, pruning trees, or constructing buildings, locate all nearby power lines.
Store Hay Safely: Avoid storing hay under power lines, as loaders are more likely to accidentally contact overhead lines
Stay Alert: Be aware of all overhead lines and that they often lack insulation, making any contact with them dangerous.
Be Proactive, Stay Safe:
Electrical safety isn’t just about avoiding immediate danger – it is about preventing long-term risks to people and operations. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and adherence to safety guidelines can keep your farm powered and safe. A safe farm is a productive farm – don't skip the check that protects your family, workers, and livelihood!
For more information on electrical safety, check out these resources:
About Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health
Founded in 2008 in the community of Seaforth, ON, Gateway CERH is a not-for-profit rural health research organization run by a community-based volunteer board of directors. Gateway CERH's main mission is to better the health and quality of life of rural residents through research, education and communication. Learn more on the Gateway CERH website at: https://www.gatewayruralhealth.ca/ and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube
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