Hazard Identification and Power Line Safety Flashcards
7 cards from real NCCCO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Hazard Identification and Power Line Safety flashcards as text
When a crane is operating near energized power lines and the boom inadvertently contacts the line, what should the operator do FIRST?
Answer: Stay in the cab and sound the horn to warn others
The operator should remain in the cab (the safest place) and sound the horn to warn ground personnel to stay clear, then contact the utility company.
Under OSHA 1926.1408, what is the minimum approach distance for a crane operating near power lines rated between 50 kV and 200 kV?
Answer: 15 feet
For lines rated 50 kV to 200 kV, OSHA requires a minimum approach distance of 15 feet.
A 'spotter' assigned to monitor power line clearance during crane operations should be positioned where?
Answer: At a location with a clear view of the power line and the crane's boom
The spotter must be positioned where they can clearly see both the power line and the crane components to accurately judge clearance distances.
What does the term 'step potential' refer to in the context of crane-power line contact incidents?
Answer: The difference in ground voltage between two points a step apart near an energized object
Step potential is the voltage difference between two ground points a step apart, which can electrocute a person walking near an energized object touching the ground.
When planning a lift near power lines and the utility company cannot de-energize the lines, what is the next required action per OSHA?
Answer: Establish and use a minimum approach distance based on voltage
If de-energizing is infeasible, OSHA requires determining the line voltage and establishing an appropriate minimum approach distance for the crane to maintain.
Which of the following conditions creates an increased electrocution risk for crane operators even when maintaining the standard 10-foot clearance from power lines?
Answer: Operating in windy conditions that could cause boom sway
Wind can cause the boom or load line to sway unpredictably, reducing the actual clearance below the required minimum even when the initial position was compliant.
A crane operator notices an unmarked overhead wire crossing the jobsite. What is the correct first action?
Answer: Treat it as energized and contact the utility company to confirm its status
All unidentified overhead lines must be treated as energized until the utility company confirms otherwise — assumptions can be fatal.