Mobile Cranes Near Power Lines

The primary objective is to prevent any contact between power lines and ensure a well-informed and responsible operation. It is crucial to recognize the potential dangers associated with operating a crane in close proximity to power lines. The safe execution of lifting tasks and complex maneuvers with a mobile crane necessitates a highly skilled and trained operator, as well as the unwavering focus of the entire team. Operating a crane within a distance of two boom lengths from a power line poses a significant risk and must be regarded as a hazardous operation, demanding additional precautions. These precautions include assigning a dedicated individual whose sole responsibility is to monitor the clearance of the equipment and provide timely warnings when necessary.

• The transportation of loads into and out of storage areas situated beneath an electrical line.
• The construction and maintenance activities on highways, which involve the placement and removal of concrete traffic barriers or guard rails in the vicinity of power lines that run alongside or intersect with the highways.
• The presence of energized lines in close proximity to a highway bridge structure.
• The lifting and transporting of a light load across a field, either onto an off-road access path or across a highway, where power lines are present.
• Performing core or post hole drilling activities or engaging in pile driving operations in close proximity to energized power lines.
• Operating a crane in close proximity to energized power lines.
• Conducting operations alongside a power line while improperly swinging in the wrong direction.
• Extending the boom or swinging towards an energized wire that appears to be farther away due to challenges in accurately estimating the distance.
• When installing or replacing outdoor advertisements, such as billboards, along roadways, it is important to comply with the relevant regulations and guidelines.
• In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established regulations under 29 CFR 1926.550(a) that specifically address the safe operation of cranes in proximity to power lines.

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This subsection addresses the safety measures related to non-energized power lines. It establishes the minimum clearance requirements between power lines and cranes or loads during both operations and transit. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of designating a signal person or spotter to monitor clearance and provide timely warnings. The subsection also highlights the use of safety features such as crate boom-type guards, insulating links, and proximity warning devices. Additionally, it provides guidelines for working near transmitter towers. It is important for both the owner and operator to be familiar with the relevant principles and standards applicable to the work location, as different nations, municipalities, and countries may have additional regulations in place.

Pre-operation Safety Measures

Prior to beginning any major construction project, it is crucial to thoroughly assess and address the presence of power lines in the vicinity of the work area. Licensed and certified contractors undertake this responsibility during the pre-bid phase of the contract. A key step in this process is to promptly contact the electric utility company during the pre-bid planning stage. This allows for determining whether the power lines can be de-energized or if additional precautions will be necessary throughout the project.

It is also imperative that a meeting involving landowners, primary builders, subcontractors, crane operations managers, responsible entities, and the electric utility. This gathering aims to discuss potential hazards and establish consensus on measures that will ensure equipment remains safeguarded against inadvertent contact with energized power lines. If any crane operation or similar tasks are planned in close proximity to energized power lines, the crane operator or project supervisor must inform the electric utility and take all necessary precautions to ensure safety throughout the project. It should be strictly prohibited to store any equipment or materials that may require lifting by a crane under power lines.

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In site situations where equipment needs to be frequently moved beneath power lines:

• Implement specialized warning signs for enhanced safety measures.
• Attach orange balls to the lower external antennas as a means of visual detection.
• Lift or bury any wires
• Install target posts (bicycle sticks) on each side of the power line, ensuring that the crossbars are positioned at least 4 feet below the bottom wire.

5 Valuable Tips For Mobile Crane Operations Near Power Lines:

• Ensure that only properly trained and qualified workers operate cranes in compliance with the crane safety requirements set by OSHA.
• Maintain a slower than usual operating speed when operating cranes in the vicinity of overhead lines.
• Having a designated spotter present in situations where the crane operator faces challenges in visibility of power lines.
• Ensure personal safety by wearing appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, eye protection, and sturdy rubber-soled shoes.
• In accordance with OSHA regulations, the minimum clearance distance required for mobile crane operators in proximity to power lines is as follows: 10 feet for power lines rated at 50 kilovolts and below, and 10 feet and 4 inches for power lines above 50 kilovolts.