Working in close proximity to electrical equipment

A guide for employers and contractors who work around EPCOR's electrical facilities and equipment.

Introduction to the Contractor Safety Handbook

Use this guide if there are underground power lines located within your dig site or overhead power lines within 7 m of where you are working. It details safe work practices as outlined in Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Code, Part 17 Overhead Power Lines, Safe limit of approach distances (Section 225) and Part 32 Excavating and Tunneling as well as the Alberta Electrical and Utility Code (AEUC).

If you have questions along the way, please call 780-412-4500 and ask to be referred to a Safety Codes Officer.

For more information

Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Code (2009), in particular Parts 17 and 32
Joint Utility Safety Team at UtilitySafety.ca
Edmonton Area Pipeline and Utility Operators' Committee's Guidelines for Working Near Buried Facilities

Table of contents Last updated: September 2021

EPCOR customer service:
Edmonton: 780-310-4300
Toll-free: 1-800-667-2345

Electrical contact:
Fire/threat to life call 911
Otherwise call EPCOR power trouble: 780-412-4500

Disclaimer

EPCOR Distribution & Transmission Inc. (EPCOR) is responsible for the delivery of electricity to customers in Edmonton and surrounding areas, while being fully committed to the protection of the environment and the health and safety of our employees and customers.

This guide provides information to employers and contractors regarding safe work practices in relation to EPCOR power facilities. Employers and contractors have responsibilities under the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety (Alberta OHS) Act, Code, and Regulation. When there is a conflict between this document and any bylaws, legislation, or regulation the relevant law prevails.

Any reliance placed on this information is strictly at your own risk. EPCOR does not assume any responsibility or liability for any action, loss or damage that arises out of, or is in connection with the information contained in this guide.

Alberta safety legislation assigns responsibilities to the utility owner, the contractor, the employer, and the worker, to ensure that work is carried out in a safe manner. All work related hazards must be identified by the employer to the workers. Only competent workers are allowed to work without direct supervision. All work shall be carried out in accordance with applicable legislation.

View our guidelines for Working in Close Proximity to Electrical Equipment.

Working in close proximity to electrical equipment

​​​Introduction to the Contractor Safety Handbook

F​ree safety tra​ining

Introduction to the Contractor Safety Handbook

Free safety training