Electricity Complacency: Stay Safe on Your Ranch or Farm

Farmers and ranchers must take countless precautions to stay safe. Unfortunately, electrical hazards can be overlooked since electricity cannot be seen or heard and overhead power lines often fade into the rural landscape.

Here are some electrical safety tips to implement on your farm or ranch:

• Look for exposed energized parts and unguarded electrical equipment that could become energized unexpectedly.
• Be careful when operating watering tanks with electric pumps. Ensure irrigation systems are not spraying water into or near overhead power lines.
• Inspect electrical fencing regularly to ensure that everything is tight and secure and that no parts are frayed.
• Ensure your electric fence is well supported. A lack of support can cause it to sag, leading to animals escaping or electrical issues.
• Make sure electric fencing is visible by using electric fence tape, warning signs or other methods.
• Cap posts, especially metal T-posts, to prevent an animal (or human) from becoming impaled.
• Be aware of overhead power lines when moving hay bales.
• Do not store hay bales under power lines.
• Be aware that tarps covering hay can come loose and blow in heavy winds, sometimes causing an outage if the tarp gets too close or contacts a power line.
• When using a generator and double throw switch, make sure they are in good working order and up to code.
• Check electrical center pivot equipment before and after use to ensure it is grounded, that the housing is protected, and the wiring is sound. This protects livestock and people.
• Regularly inspect irrigation equipment. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for inspection and maintenance.
• Always turn off the power before working on an irrigation system.
• After a storm, make sure the irrigation system is still grounded and has not been affected by lighting.
• Position irrigation pipes at least 15 feet away from power lines; store unused pipes away from power lines.
• Always be aware of overhead power line locations and use a spotter when working close to lines or poles.
• Follow safe digging procedures; call 811 to have underground utilities marked before breaking ground.

To learn more about electrical safety on the ranch or farm or in general, visit SafeElectricity.org.