What's that? That's neat!

TORONTO, June 2, 2014 /CNW/ - With spring in full swing and construction season upon us, Toronto residents may notice these bright orange powerline covers floating up above. 

Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited ("Toronto Hydro") is reminding property owners and contractors to take precautionary measures to protect against the dangers of working too close to overhead powerlines. Any project that involves the use of cranes, ladders, dump trucks or any extendable equipment should take proper precautions to ensure powerlines are covered and the area is safe. Otherwise, work sites could be shut down. 

It's required by law to keep a minimum distance of three metres from high voltage powerlines (between 750 volts and 150,000 volts). All live powerlines, covered or uncovered, are a significant safety hazard and any contact could cause severe injuries and in some cases, death.

The Construction Projects Regulation (O.Reg.213-91) under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, states it's the property owner, or contractor's responsibility to take proper precautions to ensure work sites adhere to safety regulations.

For anyone working near overhead powerlines, they should call Toronto Hydro at 416.542.2618 for more information about line covers or having the power temporarily cut off.

About Toronto Hydro

Toronto Hydro-Electric System owns and operates an electricity distribution system, which delivers electricity to approximately 730,000 customers located in the city of Toronto. It is the largest municipal electricity distribution company in Canada and distributes approximately 18% of the electricity consumed in the province of Ontario.

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Image with caption: "Although unsightly, these orange, highly visible powerline covers help keep Torontonians safe from overhead powerlines and are mandatory by law. (CNW Group/Toronto Hydro Corporation)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140602_C2329_PHOTO_EN_2439.jpg

Image with caption: "Although unsightly, these orange, highly visible powerline covers help keep Torontonians safe from overhead powerlines and are mandatory by law. (CNW Group/Toronto Hydro Corporation)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140602_C2329_PHOTO_EN_2454.jpg

SOURCE: Toronto Hydro Corporation

Tanya Bruckmueller, Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited, W: 416-542-2621, C: 416-903-0440, [email protected]