All Industrial Services Inc. of New Jersey| 190 Boundary Rd, Marlboro, NJ 07746
quote@rbaker.com| 732-222-3553|         
 
All Industrial Services Inc. of New Jersey| 190 Boundary Rd, Marlboro, NJ 07746
quote@rbaker.com| 732-222-3553|         
190 Boundary Rd, Marlboro, NJ 07746 732-222-3553
asset recovery, rigging team with sling and interior demolition

Rigging Near Overhead Powerlines

Rigging Near Overhead Powerlines

Crane operation near overhead power lines is one of the most dangerous jobs a rigging crew can undertake. In fact, electrocution is the number one cause of crane-related fatalities, making compliance with OSHA standards and guidelines absolutely crucial when working in close proximity to overhead power lines.

Before equipment is brought to a jobsite near overhead power lines, a 360-degree hazard assessment inside the work zone must be completed. If it is determined that a crane could exceed minimum required distances, further action is required by the contractor. The first option is to coordinate with the power company to have the lines de-energized and visibly grounded. Line owners will sometimes opt to move the lines so that minimum clearance distance can be achieved. Both options require some preplanning as it may take some time to complete the necessary work.

OSHA requirements for working near overhead power lines that are not de-energized are clear cut. For power lines 50 kV or less, all parts of the crane, boom, rigging equipment, and loads carried must be kept at least 10 ft. away. This distance increases to 20 ft. for lines rated 50 kV to 350 kV, and 50 ft. for lines over 350 kV. If the voltage cannot be determined, cranes and rigging equipment must be kept at least 45 ft. away. A planning meeting with the crane operator and riggers must be conducted to review the location of the power lines and implement a rigging plan to prevent encroachment. All tag lines used must be non-conductive to prevent electrocution. An elevated warning line, barricade or line of electrocution hazard warning signs equipped with high-visibility flags must be erected 20 ft. from the power line in view of the crane operator. In addition, the rigging contractor must utilize at least one of the following: a dedicated spotter, proximity alarm, range control device, range of motion limiting device, and/or insulating link.

Crane operators and rigging crew members should be trained to work safely near overhead power lines and how to react if safety measures fail and contact is made. Dedicated spotters have the important responsibility to ensure that the minimum distance is not breach and thus must receive special training.

R. Baker & Son - All Industrial Services
190 Boundary Road
Marlboro, NJ 07746
732-222-3553
http://www.rbaker.com

Full News Archive

2024

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

Recent News

Safety in Construction
The Critical Importance of Safety Investment in Construction

In the construction industry, and especially our industry, investing in safety is not just a regulatory requirement—it's a strategic decision that yields numerous benefits. A comprehensive...
Demolition company discussing pricing
Understanding the Difference Between Lowest Price and Best Price

In purchasing services, particularly in contracting, it's crucial to understand that the "lowest price" rarely equates to the "best price." Smart purchasing involves looking...
R. Baker BIM Laser Scans for Demolition Project
Accelerated Project Timelines with R. Baker BIM Laser Scans

R. Baker was awarded a large demolition project in an existing 130k sq/ft laboratory facility to make way for a new modern lab facility. Our client had presented us with a very aggressive demolition...
Positive Safety Habits - Industrial Rigging Equipment
Building a Safer Environment: The Power of Positive Safety Habits

Safety is contagious, much like many other human behaviors. We are naturally inclined to be influenced by positive examples set by others. When a driver buckles up, passengers often follow suit. This...
Rigging and Replacing Old Equipment - Boilers, Chilling Towers
R. Baker Seamlessly Rigging and Replacing Old Equipment

Recently, a large hospital in central New Jersey successfully completed extensive HVAC and electrical changes. These changes, which were a significant undertaking, included replacing two chillers and...
Hospital Corridor Before Demolition by R. Baker & Son
R. Baker & Son Hospital Wing Interior Demolition

R. Baker & Son was awarded a project to perform interior demolition of a 55,000 sq/ft three-story patient area in a New York hospital. The wing, erected in the early 1980s and renovated in the...
Rigging Equipment Contractor - Rigging lift in NYC
R. Baker & Son's Rigging Expertise Shines in Pharma Expansion

R. Baker & Son, an industrial tri-state contractor specializing in selective demolition and rigging services, showcased our exceptional skills during a challenging project at a high-tech...
demolition equipment at JFK NYC
R. Baker & Son Comprehensive Equipment Management Strategy

Demolition projects demand specialized equipment, machines, and tools to ensure safe and efficient execution. At R. Baker & Son, we employ an array of assets, including excavators, cranes,...