California Code of Regulations
Title 8 - Industrial Relations
Division 1 - Department of Industrial Relations
Chapter 4 - Division of Industrial Safety
Subchapter 5 - Electrical Safety Orders
Group 2 - High-Voltage Electrical Safety Orders
Article 36 - Work Procedures and Operating Procedures
Section 2940.8 - Material Handling

(a) Unloading. Prior to and during the unloading of poles, crossarms, and similar material, the load shall be thoroughly examined to ascertain if the load has shifted, binders or stakes have broken or the load is otherwise hazardous to employees. Where a hazardous condition is noted, positive means shall be taken to eliminate the hazard. Employees shall not stand on top or in the potential path of an unsecured load while unloading poles from pole dollies or utility trailers.

(b) Pole Hauling.

(c) Storage. When materials or equipment are stored under energized bus, energized conductors, or near exposed energized equipment, applicable clearances shall be maintained as stated in Section 2946 Table 2, except when such work is performed by qualified electrical workers, or as provided in Section 2944(g)(3) and (g)(4).

(d) Tag Lines. Tag lines used near energized conductors shall be of a non-conductive type.

(e) Attaching the Load. Hoist ropes shall not be wrapped around the load. This provision shall not apply to electric construction crews when setting or removing poles.

(f) Damaged or unstable poles, or sections of poles shall be guyed, braced or otherwise securely supported during pole removal operations.

(g) To protect employees from falling into holes used for placing poles, the employer shall physically guard the holes, or ensure that employees attend the holes, whenever anyone is working nearby.