Stiring or Removing Deenergized Conductors

DOE-HDBK-1092-98

2. Line or equipment carrying an ac voltage in excess of 600 V phase-to-phase should be worked

on with rubber gloves or live line tools. All other necessary protective devices such as line

hose, hoods, covers, sleeves, and rubber blankets should be used. (See Section 2.1.2).

3. Energized line should be worked on from below whenever possible. When working energized

line or equipment carrying 600 V or more to ground, there shall be two qualified workers

performing the work (see Section 2.1.2). Work shall not be performed on energized lines or

equipment during rain, snow, sleet, fog, and other damp conditions, except in extreme

emergencies if in the opinion of supervision and line crew it can be done safely.

4. While working on the same pole, workers shall not work simultaneously on wires that have

a difference of potential.

5. Rubber gloves of appropriate voltage rating shall be worn when working within reach of a

fellow employee who is working on or within reach of wires or equipment carrying voltage

in excess of 600 V.

6. Insulated tongs or disconnect sticks shall be used to open or close plugs or fuses or to

disconnect blades.

7.6.2 STRINGING OR REMOVING DEENERGIZED CONDUCTORS

Employees stringing or removing deenergized conductors should follow certain safe work practices.

(See 29 CFR 1910.269(q), 1926.955(c), and IEEE 524-1992, "IEEE Guide to the Installation of

Overhead Transmission Conductors.") Consideration should be given to the following:

1. When it is necessary to conduct any work on poles or structures carrying more than one circuit

and where there is not safe working clearance between circuits, the conductors not being

worked on shall be either:

a. Untied and separated with proper clearance from the pole or structure,

b. Deenergized and grounded, or

c. Covered with the necessary protective devices.

2. Prior to stringing operations, a job briefing shall be held setting forth the plan of operation and

specifying the type of equipment to be used, grounding devices to be used and instructions to

be followed, crossover methods to be employed, and clearance authorization required.

3. Where there is a possibility that the conductor will accidentally contact an energized circuit

or receive a dangerous induced voltage buildup, to protect the employee from the hazards of

the conductor, the conductor being installed or removed shall be grounded or provisions made

to insulate or isolate the employee.

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