When a high-voltage electric line comes in contact with the ground (or a conductive material that comes into contact with the ground), there is a zone of electrified ground around the point of contact.
The minimum safe distance from the point of contact is termed the limit of approach.
Voltage Phase to Phase
Minimum Distance
750 to 75,000 V
3 meters
75,001 to 250,000 V
4.5 meters
250,001 to 550,000 V
6 meters
unknown
10 meters
If the person is within the limit of approach, then the person should either:
(1) stand still until the power source can be deactivated
(2) very carefully and slowly shuffle the feet away from the point of contact, making sure that the feet do not touch the ground and that no metal is touched
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