Commitment To Zero Contacts

Lane-Scott Embraces Commitment to Zero Contacts

On July 30^th, Lane-Scott Electric’s linemen and staff signed a pledge to be further committed to safety to prevent electrical contact which may cause serious harm, or loss of life.  The Commitment to Zero Contacts initiative was created in April 2018 by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), Federated Rural Electric Insurance Exchange and electric coop safety leaders. The intent of the initiative is to provide cooperatives with ideas and resources to help eliminate serious injuries and fatalities due to electrical contact and enhance co-op safety programs.

Lane-Scott employees received a sticker to place on their vehicle and a customized coin to be kept with them as reminders of their commitment, and what the commitment ultimately means to them, their families, friends and members. Chris Terhune, Lane-Scott Electric Safety Coordinator stressed, “Safety is our number one goal. In this profession you only get one chance, mistakes are fatal.  That’s why we take our Commitment to Zero Contacts seriously.”

Lane-Scott is inviting you to join us in our commitment to safety by following these safety guidelines:

• Before Digging call 811 or 1-800-DIG-SAFE.

• Overhead Line Safety:
  • When raising truck beds, extending spray rig arms, combine augers, etc. keep equipment 10 feet away from power lines.
  • Use a spotter if it is difficult to estimate the distance. 
  • Always lower extensions to their lowest possible level, under 14 feet, before moving or transporting.
  • Be aware of increased height when loading and transporting larger equipment with higher antennas.
  • Communicate the importance of being aware of electrical power line locations to EVERYONE working around the equipment.
• Contact Lane-Scott Electric if you are aware of a power line that needs to be raised for clearance of large equipment.
• If Contact with a Powerline Occurs: Do not exit the equipment or vehicle that encounters a power line until utility workers have de-energized the line and confirmed it’s safe. When stepping out of the equipment or vehicle, you become the electricity’s path to the ground, delivering a potentially fatal shock.
• If you must exit because of fire, jump clear with both feet together and arms crossed over your chest. Hop at least 30 feet from the vehicle feet together. If you feel any tingling, hop further.
• If you happen upon an accident or are a first responder when there’s a downed line, do not attempt to help until utility workers have checked and cleared the area. 
• Never attempt to raise or move a power line to clear a path. Call your utility to do this.
• Be aware when working on home and outdoor projects such as, tree trimming, roof repair, and Christmas lights that may put you in contact with electrical lines. Look up and around frequently to ensure proper distance is maintained. 
• Recreational activities such as flying a kite, or a balloon need to be done in a secure area away from electrical lines.
• Have your electrical wiring in equipment and homes checked by a qualified electrician for bare wires that can cause electrical shorts and potentially fatal shocks.

Submitted by Ann Marie Jennings on Wed, 08/28/2019 - 16:00