20 is the New 10

OSHA has significantly changed it’s treatment of powerlines with its new subpart 1926.1407-1411.  In the past there was little to no discussion until personnel or equipment got within 10 feet of an overhead powerline.

Now, before assembly or disassembly of a crane, the employer must determine if it could come within 20 feet of a power line. If so, the employer must either confirm with the power company that the line is de-energized and visibly grounded at the worksite, make sure no part gets within 20 feet of the power line or follows Table A, which has minimum distances based on voltage.
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Myth #1 –OSHA’s budget is supported by its fines

A common belief among employers. Even I have heard some OSHA inspectors from state programs, intimate that the fines pad their budgets, there is no truth to the rumor. State and Federal OSHA programs alike, pass the citations on to either the U.S. Treasury or the respective State Treasury coffers. That’s not to say that fines are not on the increase. Recently, Dr. David Michaels, the head of OSHA, circulated a memo, which basically is asking OSHA area office to triple or quadruple their average fine structure. (more…)

Overhead powerlines are an electrocution risk for anyone who works with or nearby cranes. Before beginning work on a site that has any powerlines, the electrical utility or site owner (if the lines are privately owned) should be known.  In addition, if the work is within the safe approach distance (usually 20ft. to 10ft.) the utility/ owner should be notified of the date, time, and type of work involved.  If any work is required within the 10ft. minimum approach distance, their permission should be requested to either de-energize and visibly ground the powerlines or to provide insulated barriers between the powerlines and the work. (more…)