WAC 296-874-20046. Protect employees from energized power lines

You must make sure scaffolds are erected, moved, altered, or dismantled so that they, and any conductive material handled on them, are kept at least as far from exposed and energized power lines as shown in Table 2, Minimum Separation Distance from Energized Power Lines. Table 2 Minimum Separation Distance from Energized Power Lines Voltage Minimum Separation Distance Less than 300 volts (insulated lines) 3 feet (0.9 m) Less than 300 volts (uninsulated lines) 10 feet (3.1 m) 300 volts to 50 kv 10 feet (3.1 m) 10 feet (3.1 m) + 0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for each 1 kv over 50 kv More than 50 kv Note: You may use an alternative minimum separation distance of 2 times the length of the line insulator, but never less than 10 feet (3.1 m). Voltage Minimum Separation Distance Less than 300 volts (insulated lines) 3 feet (0.9 m) Less than 300 volts (uninsulated lines) 10 feet (3.1 m) 300 volts to 50 kv 10 feet (3.1 m) 10 feet (3.1 m) + 0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for each 1 kv over 50 kv More than 50 kv Note: You may use an alternative minimum separation distance of 2 times the length of the line insulator, but never less than 10 feet (3.1 m). EXEMPTION: Scaffolds and conductive materials handled on scaffolds may be closer to power lines than the minimum separation distance specified in Table 2 if all of the following are met: 1. Less clearance is necessary to do the work; 2. The utility company or electrical system operator has been notified of the need to work closer to the power lines; 3. The utility company or electrical system operator has done at least one of the following: a. De-energized the lines; b. Relocated the lines to meet the minimum separation distance requirement; c. Installed protective coverings over the lines to prevent accidental contact.