Installation of a structure within the right-of-way of an overhead transmission line

Electrical protection study

Protect your projects and ensure regulatory compliance

Any installation carried out within the right-of-way of a Hydro-Québec transmission line must be analyzed to ensure compliance with electrical safety standards. That is why Hydro-Québec requires an electrical protection study for municipal, industrial, and residential projects located near high-voltage lines.

At 3E Ing., we conduct these studies rigorously, in accordance with the Guide for Engineers, Technicians, and Project Managers published by Hydro-Québec.

Why conduct an electrical protection study?

The proximity of high-voltage lines causes electromagnetic induction phenomena that can generate:

  • dangerous step and touch voltages;
  • electric and magnetic fields exceeding the limits set by the IEC, IEEE, or ICNIRP;
  • increased risks to the safety of workers, citizens, and equipment.

A professional study can help prevent these risks and ensure that your infrastructure (streetlights, bike paths, roads, municipal networks) remains safe and compliant with Hydro-Québec requirements.

Our expertise in electrical protection studies

We implement a comprehensive approach:

  • Data collection and validation from Hydro-Québec, municipalities, and partner firms.
  • On-site soil resistivity measurements to model actual conditions.
  • Advanced simulations with XGSLab, the leading software for analyzing electric and magnetic fields.
  • Detailed analysis of step and touch voltages to ensure compliance with international standards.
  • Corrective recommendations: grounding optimization (MALT), addition of covering layers (asphalt, gravel), adaptation of materials, and safe design.

Our studies comply with IEC/TS 60479-1:2018, IEEE C95.1-2019, and ICNIRP guidelines.

Benefits of working with 3E Eng.

  • Conformité garantie aux normes d’Hydro-Québec.
  • Sécurité accrue pour vos utilisateurs et vos infrastructures.
  • Expertise reconnue en matière d’études de protection électrique au Québec.
  • Soutien clé en main : de la collecte des données au rapport final validé.

Common applications

Our services cover:

  • the installation of streetlights and lighting networks under high-voltage lines;
  • the construction of bike paths and public roads within the right-of-way of power lines;
  • the securing of municipal or industrial structures near the transmission network.

Contact our engineers

Are you planning a project under Hydro-Québec power lines? Avoid delays and risks by entrusting your electrical protection study to specialists.

Contact 3E Eng. today to discuss your project and get a personalized quote.

Electrical protection study carried out
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