While operating a hydraulic excavator, you hear a loud 'CRACK' and the machine loses power. You look up and see a power line sparking where your boom contacted it. You are inside the cab and the machine is still in contact with the line. What is your immediate and primary action?

Question: While operating a hydraulic excavator, you hear a loud 'CRACK' and the machine loses power. You look up and see a power line sparking where your boom contacted it. You are inside the cab and the machine is still in contact with the line. What is your immediate and primary action?

Answer options: ✅ Stay in the cab, warn others to stay clear, and attempt to move the machine away from the power line without touching any controls.

• Immediately attempt to jump clear of the machine, landing with both feet together.
• Contact your supervisor via two-way radio to report the incident and ask for instructions.
• Attempt to climb down from the cab using the three-point contact method.

Correct answer: Stay in the cab, warn others to stay clear, and attempt to move the machine away from the power line without touching any controls.

Explanation: The primary action in a powerline contact where you are still in contact is to stay in the cab, warn others, and if safe, try to gently break contact without operating controls excessively. If you cannot move, stay put until the line is de-energized. This is critical for preventing electrocution as per OHSA regulations and CCOHS guidance.