Operating near electric power lines

(a) Hoisting equipment shall be operated so that no part of the hoisting equipment or load enters into the danger zone identified in the "Required Clearance for Normal Voltage in Operation Near High Voltage Power Lines and Operation in Transit with No Load and Boom or Mast Lowered" table contained within ANSI B30.5-2004, Mobile and Locomotive Cranes, hereafter "the ANSI table." ANSI standards may be obtained by contacting ANSI at ansi.org. (b) Exceptions to subsection (a) of this section include those instances where the electrical distribution and transmission lines have been de-energized and visibly grounded at the point of work, or insulating barriers that are not a part of nor an attachment to the hoisting equipment have been erected to prevent physical contact with the lines. In the case of a line that has been de-energized, the operator shall obtain written verification from the property owner or electric utility before work begins. (c) The minimum clearance for lines rated 50 kV or below shall be 10 feet. (d) Caution shall be exercised when working near overhead lines because they can move horizontally or vertically due to wind. (e) A qualified signal person shall be assigned to observe the clearance when the hoisting equipment moves to within a boom's length of the limits specified in the ANSI table. (f) The requirements of this section shall be met notwithstanding the use of such safety features as cage-type boom guards, insulating links or proximity warning devices. When used, operators shall understand the limitations of such devices and shall test them in such manner and with such frequency as the manufacturer may prescribe. (g) Durable signs shall be installed at the operator's station and on the outside of the hoisting equipment warning of the possibility of death or serious bodily injury if appropriate clearances are not maintained.