What should you do if your machine comes into contact with an overhead or underground power line?

When a machine comes into contact with an overhead or underground power line, the safest action is to stay on the machine. This is because the machine may be energized, and the ground could be electrified. Staying on the machine minimizes the risk of electrical shock, as being on the machine keeps the operator insulated from ground potential.

While other responses may seem intuitive, such as trying to break contact or evacuating the area, these actions can increase the risk of electrical injury. For instance, attempting to break contact could result in the operator being exposed to electrical lines, and jumping off the machine could lead to stepping onto a live ground and experiencing a shock. Thus, remaining on the machine and waiting for professional help is the most prudent choice until assistance can arrive.

Additionally, turning off the machine is not advisable if it is still energized, as this doesn't necessarily eliminate the risk of shock until the power line has been verified to be de-energized. Therefore, the correct action in this situation is to stay on the machine and signal for help, ensuring safety until the power can safely be turned off by qualified personnel.