Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 004 Hazard:

29 CFR 1926.955(a)(5)(i): When setting, moving, or removing poles using cranes, derricks, gin poles, A-frames, or other mechanized equipment near energized lines or equipment, precautions shall be taken to avoid contact with energized lines or equipment, except in bare-hand live-line work, or where barriers or protective devices are used: On or about 05/25/2011, precautions were not taken when employees initiated a pole-setting operation in near proximity to an exposed 7200 volt distribution line. Note: Suggested precautions include but are not limited to a safety program outlining the operating hazards and operating procedures to be consistently followed when setting poles; correct personal protective equipment to be used when setting poles (electrical-resistant rubber boots, rubber gloves); live-line insulated hose to be used for awareness and/or insulating purposes; insulated cover-up of the pole and other equipment; ground-gradient matting to prevent injury from step potential; awareness of environmental conditions that can affect electrical conduction, such as relative humidity, rainy conditions, wet ground; proper grounding techniques; de-energization and grounding of energized lines; safe position of vehicle (digger derrick truck); more protective barricading of digger derrick trucks (cones may be insufficient).