Hot wires

[tod_k]

Good observation Kevin. Photos taken from the ground could be quite deseptive. If jason slipped he would have been above the wire by around 3'.

 

[TMW]

Kevin,

Currently the Z133 standard allows crane operators who are Qualified Line Clearance Arborists to work within MAD as listed in Table 1 (in this example, 2'5").

 

[Kevin]

Thanks for your input Tim.
Todd, thanks for not taking offense to my questions, another clear sign of professionalism!

 

[TMW]

Thank you Kevin,

The professionalism here is why I only post on Treebuzz.

 

[tod_k]

Exactly.

 

[TGCIII]

im new to this forum and i hope im not out of line but my question is 1.5 hours without power worth the climber and the crane operator's lives? denenergize and u cut the risk to nothing with ur crew's preformance while energized. things go wrong in our business as in every business but ours is less than forgiving to miscalculations. thanks to all for the info

 

[TMW]

There are situations where the power cannot be shut off; hospitals, certain businesses, etc. Often the work can be safely done while maintaining MAD's. If the work can't be done safely, the utility can re-route the power by installing a new temporary pole (at the expense of the contractor).

 

[Kevin]

Generators are another common source for power, most hospitals should have them.

 

[Mark Chisholm]

I agree. Also, if you are hired by the power co., then they decide how to proceed. They tell you if they will cover lines, de-energize, or possibly drop them for a reroute. I have done many removals near hot lines. Like mentioned, it isn't a job for just anyone. It takes a coordinated effort with precision and focus. Just another voice.

 

[Kevin]

[ QUOTE ]
1926.550(a)

1926.550(a)(15)(i)

For lines rated 50 kV. or below, minimum clearance between the lines and any part of the crane or load shall be 10 feet;


[/ QUOTE ]

Does the Z supersede the OSHA regulations because of the arborist qualification to work within MAD?
I would think a crane operator would be hesitant to go beyond the prescribed ten feet set out in the regs.

 

[TMW]

Kevin,

Short answer is; Yes.

1926 is the construction standard and does not apply. 1926 also prohibits hoisting personnel on the load line which we allow.

Z133 is what we follow. With cranes, as long as the crane operator is a Qualified Line Clearance Arborist, they can work to the MAD in Table 1.

 

[Kevin]

[ QUOTE ]
as long as the crane operator is a Qualified Line Clearance Arborist

[/ QUOTE ]
Ok, that makes sense.
Thanks.