Due to the multiple applications of electricity, energy is nowadays indispensable for the society. Thus, there is a consequent continuous increase in consumption, requiring the creation of medium and high-tension lines to convey energy from production to consumption sites.

The first high tension line in Andorra came into service in 1934. Mutua Elèctrica effort to build most of the new high-tension lines underground is progressively reducing the percentage of overhead line kilometres.
Activities carried out near power lines must take into consideration certain security standards in order to avoid possible accidents, as electricity is a type of energy that can involve potential dangers.

Living with High-Tension Power Lines

Fishers
When fishing, it is necessary to keep away from power lines. The proximity of the fishing rod to a power line can cause an electrical discharge. It should be noted that many fishing rods contain electrically conducting materials, like carbon fibres, for instance.

Power lines over Woods
To avoid accidental contact of electrical cables with trees -which could cause fire or damages- a corridor free of trees is created along the line. The minimum width of such a corridor depends on the line tension. Mutua Elèctrica takes charge of keeping this corridor free of vegetation.

Do Power Lines Attract Lightning?
It is usual to relate lightning, a natural electrical phenomenon, with electricity transported by lines. The development and displacement of a storm are not influenced by the presence of power lines. Lightning can fall equally on an electricity pylon, a tree or a bell tower.
Electricity pylons have a protection device that, in case of being touched by lightning, conveys current to the ground. Nevertheless, in case of storm, it is advisable, as a precaution measure, not to be near electricity pylons.

Field Cropping
It is possible to grow crops under a power line, since the cable is high enough to permit the passage of the usual agricultural material. If machinery of exceptional dimensions is used or the farmer has interest in modifying the profile of the ground under the line, so as to modify the distance between cables and ground, it is necessary to contact Mutua Elèctrica in advance talk about a solution granting the required security conditions.

Spray Irrigation
In irrigation works it is very important that water never gets in touch with electrical cables.Precautions must always be taken when handling irrigation pipes which can be long enough to reach electrical cables. It is necessary to make sure that they can be raised with no risks.

Working Near Power Lines
Many construction or other works are carried out near power lines. It is essential to keep adequate safety distances. It is specially important to take adequate measures when using cranes or handling large objects.Furthermore, it is necessary to be extremely careful with dumpings reducing distances between electrical cables and the ground or slopes that could destabilize support pylons.Although we are speaking of overhead power lines, we should also take into consideration that there are many kilometres of underground lines; thus, it is necessary to take precautions in case of working nearby. First of all, it is important to know the exact condition of wiring, for which it is essential to consult Mutua Elèctrica, which will send its experts to mark the situation of cables.In any case, it is recommended to contact Mutua Elèctrica technical service, which will provide practical advice or take the required security measures to carry out works.

What Should Be Done in Case of Accident?
Never touch a fallen cable, even if it has been on the ground for a while. Do not approach it and prevent anyone else from doing so. The electrical company should be immediately informed.In the event a device or other object gets stationary while in contact with an electrical cable, it must not be touched until the electrical company authorizes so.In the event of fire at the foot of an electrical pylon, do not approach it and inform the electrical company.