OSHA Electrical Hazards & Power Line Safety

Question 1

What is the minimum safe approach distance required by OSHA for crane operations near power lines energized at 50 kV or less?

Accepted Answer

10 feet

Answer

OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1408 requires a minimum clearance of 10 feet for power lines energized up to 50 kV.

Question 2

Before beginning crane operations near overhead power lines, what must the crane operator or employer determine first?

Accepted Answer

The voltage of the power lines

Answer

The voltage must be determined first because minimum approach distances are calculated based on the power line's voltage level.

Question 3

If a crane boom accidentally contacts an energized overhead power line, what should the crane operator do immediately?

Accepted Answer

Stay in the cab and call for emergency help

Answer

The crane cab acts as a Faraday cage; exiting creates a path for current through the operator's body to ground, so staying inside is safer until power is deenergized.

Question 4

Which OSHA standard governs crane and derrick operations in construction, including power line safety requirements?

Accepted Answer

29 CFR 1926.1400 (Subpart CC)

Answer

29 CFR 1926.1400 (Subpart CC), effective 2010, is the comprehensive OSHA standard governing cranes and derricks in construction including electrical hazard requirements.

Question 5

What minimum clearance distance does OSHA require when crane operations are conducted near power lines energized between 350 kV and 1,000 kV?

Accepted Answer

35 feet

Answer

OSHA 1926.1408 requires a minimum approach distance of 35 feet for power lines energized between 350 kV and 1,000 kV.

OSHA - OSHA Certified Crane Operator Practice Test

OSHA - OSHA Certified Crane Operator Practice Test

OSHA Electrical Hazards & Power Line Safety