(File Photo of the Duquesne Light Company Logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) Following two recent electrocution incidents in Western Pennsylvania, Duquesne Light Company is reminding residents and contractors to use caution when working near power lines and electrical equipment as summer construction and home improvement projects increase. 

One man was hospitalized after being shocked while working on a house in Pittsburgh’s Greenfield neighborhood, while another man was electrocuted while allegedly attempting to steal wire from power lines in Fayette County.

In a press release, the company said people working outdoors should always treat power lines and electrical infrastructure as energized and potentially dangerous. Duquesne Light also recommended examining worksites beforehand, establishing safety boundaries and using a dedicated spotter when working near electrical equipment. 

The company is also encouraging customers to request temporary protective coverings for electrical facilities near active worksites to help prevent accidental contact with uninsulated power lines. 

Projects taking place near energized electric lines also must comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards related to electrical safety. 

“Safety is always the first priority for DLC, whether it’s our workers, our customers, or the community in general,” Vice President of Operations Brian Guzek said in a statement. “We cannot stress enough the importance of taking the proper safety measures when working near electrical infrastructure. Please use the many resources available from our company and other agencies to keep yourself and others as safe as possible while you’re working.”

Contractors and residents can find more information on Duquesne Light’s website by going to duquesnelight.com.