Annapolis Electrical Injury

At approximately 11:30 pm on February 20, 2007 a CWA Local 2107 member was shocked by electric current while working on a callout in the Annapolis area. Due to storm damage the pole had been replaced by a BGE Contractor.

Before beginning the work operation, all safety checks were performed and the pole was found to be free of any hazards. As the night progressed it began to rain. The technician was working aloft in a bucket truck and drilling holes for the Verizon thru bolts for the cable attachment.  While placing the nuts on the bolts, he felt the shock of the electric. The technician, with the assistance of two other technicians on the job, was lowered to the ground where he continued to complain of pain in his arms and chest. He was transported to the hospital and admitted.

The preliminary findings reflect that an 115v Electric line that went to a streetlight had been transferred to the new pole. The new light fixture had not been placed.  The line was cut and the hot end was in contact with the metallic bracket and pole. It is believed that due to the dampness and the dirt on the pole the voltage spilled over to the face of the new pole while the technician was placing the hardware.

It was observed that the Verizon work was approximately 8 ft from any electrical hazards. It is important to realize that while in this case all safety precautions had been followed, the electrical potentials could change at any moment and create a hazardous situation.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to this CWA Local 2107 Member and his family CWA  for a complete and speedy recovery.

I will keep you posted on any changes that I might receive.

Mark Balsamo 
CWA District 2
Maryland State Safety Representative