CH.2 11 BPs electric work

10

Best practices for working near electricity

Speed

Operate the crane at a slower-than-normal rate in the vicinity of power lines.

Sway

Exercise caution near long spans of overhead power lines, since wind can cause the power lines to sway laterally and reduce the clearance between the crane and the power line.

Safe Routes

Mark safe routes where cranes must repeatedly travel beneath power lines.

Personnel

Keep all personnel well away from the crane whenever it is close to power lines.

Limitations

Be aware of the limitations of proximity warning devices, hook insulators, insulating boom guards, swing-limit stops, non-conductive taglines, ground rods and similar devices for protection against electrical hazards.

M.A.D.

The crane and all conductive objects associated with it must maintain a minimum approach distance of 10 feet or more from energized conductors in accordance with Table 1 in ANSI Z133. Personnel assigned to work in the proximity of the tree work shall be trained and follow guidelines in the Electrical Hazards section of Z133.

Consider it Energized

Any overhead wire must be considered to be an energized line unless and until the entity owning or operating the power grid verifies that it is not.

Keep the Load Clear

Do not move the boom load line or load into the absolute limit of approach unless a utility representative has verified that the power line has been de-energized, tested and grounded.

Line Clearance Arborist

Tree work near overhead conductors must be performed by a Level 2, 3 or 4 Electrically Qualified Arborist; i.e., someone with the demonstrated competency to both recognize and avoid the electrical hazard.

10

Before Working

Know the location and nominal voltage of all overhead power lines at the jobsite before operating or working with any crane.