Electrical Line Overhead Clearances
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Electricity is an essential part of our lives. However, it has the potential to cause great harm. Electrical systems will function almost indefinitely, if properly installed and not overloaded or physically abused. Electrical fires in our homes claim the lives of 485 Americans each year and injure 2,305 more. Some of these fires are caused by electrical system failures and appliance defects, but many more are caused by the misuse and poor maintenance of electrical appliances, incorrectly installed wiring, and overloaded circuits and extension cords. Some safety tips to remember:
- Never use anything but the proper fuse to protect a circuit.
- Find and correct overloaded circuits.
- Never place extension cords under rugs.
- Outlets near water should be GFCI-type outlets.
- Don't allow trees near power lines to be climbed.
- Keep ladders, kites, equipment and anything else away from overhead power lines.
OVERHEAD POWER LINES
There are several electrical hazards outside the home. Be aware of overhead and underground power lines.People have been electrocuted when an object they are moving has come in contact with the overhead power lines. Keep ladders, antennae, kites and poles away from power lines leading to the house and other buildings. Do not plant trees, shrubs or bushes under power lines or near underground power lines. Never build a swimming pool or other structure under the power line leading to your house. Before digging,learn the location of underground power lines.
Never prop up or come in contact with the overhead service wires.
Never, secure power wires to a tree.
Maintain the following overhead wire clearances to prevent prevent anyone from accidentally touching the wires and to prevent vehicles from touching them.
|
Location |
Minimum Clearance Requirement |
|
streets and roadways |
18 feet |
|
commercial parking lots |
18 feet |
|
|
22 feet, 6 inches above and |
|
over all residential areas, including driveways |
|
|
areas with pedestrian-only access and lowest level to the drip loop |
|
|
flat roofs |
8 feet |
|
pitched roofs |
3 feet |
|
|
18 inches |
|
|
The service cable should be no closer than within 3 feet of the bottom, |
Categories: Home Inspection, Electrical Inspection
Tags: Electrical service wires Electrical inspection Canton MI Home Inspection home inspection Michigan Canton Michigan Home Inspector Electrical Power Lines Electrical Overhead Line Clearances Power lines Canton Michigan Plymouth Michigan home inspection
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