Komatsu PC16R-3, Operation & Maintenance Manual

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PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN WHEN WORKING
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2.4.9 PREVENTING ELECTROCUTION
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Digging operations near overhead electric lines are extremely dangerous and they may also cause death due to
electrocution; for this reason, when working near overhead electric lines always respect the minimum safety dis-
tances prescribed by the competent authorities and by the accident-prevention rules in force.
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As far as underground long-distance lines are concerned, the minimum distance depends on the covering of the
ducts in which the cables are laid.
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The basic safety precautions to be taken to prevent this risk are the following:
1 - Wear shoes with thick rubber or leather soles.
2 - Request the aid of another person who can warn you if the machine gets too close to the electric line.
3 - Operate at low speed.
4 - Get acquainted with the behaviour rules to be followed in case of electrocution.
5 - Keep the phone number of the electricity company and of the nearest first aid station at hand.
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If the work equipment gets accidentally entangled in the cables, the operator must not leave the cab until the
electricity company has insulated the line.
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When carrying out this kind of operations, warn everyone standing in the work area to keep a safety distance
from the machine and the work equipment.
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Ask the electricity company in advance the voltage of the cables and the minimum safety distance.
DANGER
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The minimum distances from overhead lines can vary in the different countries, according to the climate
and to the humidity percentage in the air.
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Indicatively, the distances indicated in the following table should be respected.
Cable voltage
Min. safety distance
1.0 kV (distribution line) 5 m
6.6 kV (2–3 insulators) 5.2 m
33 kV (min. 3 insulators) 5.5 m
66 kV (min. 6 insulators) 6 m
154 kV (min. 10 insulators) 8 m
275 kV (min. 19 insulators) 10 m
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