Two Tree Trimmers Die When They Are Electrocuted While Pollinating Date Palm Trees

California Case Report: 16CA003

SUMMARY

Two tree trimmers were electrocuted by an overhead high voltage electrical power line while pollinating date palm trees. Both victims were in the bucket of an aerial lift bucket truck when the incident occurred. The vehicle involved in the incident was parked under high voltage power lines and the bucket was raised up directly into the lines. One of the victims in the bucket made contact with the lines, causing a large arc and fire. The electric utility company was not notified of the work being performed in close proximity to its high voltage lines. There were no written safety procedures or an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) in place at the time of the incident.

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