Safety Precautions Near Overhead Power Lines

(From the July 1995 issue of Demolition, published by the NADC)

WARNING! Crane operators and crew members may be electrocuted when they work near overhead power lines.  Take the following steps to protect yourself from electrocution when operating or working around cranes that are near overhead power lines:

• Operate cranes only if you have been trained in safe operating procedures and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety requirements.

• Participate in all crane safety programs offered by your employer or labor organization.

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

Assume that all power lines are energized and maintain the minimum clearance required by OSHA at all times:

• At least 10 feet for lines rated 50 kilovolts or below

• At least 10 feet plus 0.4 inch for each kilovolt above 50 kilovolts (or maintain twice the length of the line insulator, but never less than 10 feet)

For more protection, maintain the greater clear­ances recommended by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI):

Where it is difficult for the crane operator to seethe power lines or pay attention to maintaining required clearance during crane movement or operation, designate a person whose sole responsibility is to observe the clearance and to give immediate warn­ing when the crane approaches the limits of safe clearance.

Be aware of the limitations of boom guards, insu­lated lines, ground rods, nonconductive links, and proximity warning devices. Do not use these devices as a substitute for de‑energizing and grounding lines or maintaining safe clearance.