(1)
Scope.
(a)
Extent of
Application. The following rules apply to electric transmission
lines operating at alternating current voltages over 50,000 volts phase to
phase in overhead and underground construction operated in connection with
public utilities, privately or municipally owned. The clearances listed in the
tables take into account the fact that the transmission line may be operated at
5% above the voltages indicated in the tables.
(b)
Not Complete
Specifications.
220 CMR 125.00 is not
complete specifications, but are intended to embody the requirements which are
most important from the standpoint of safety. Rules in
220 CMR 125.00 are to be
regarded as mandatory are characterized by the use of the word "shall". Where a
rule is of an advisory nature, it is indicated by the use of the word
"should".
(c)
Conformity with Good Practice. Construction should be
made according to accepted good practice for the given local conditions in all
particulars not specified in the rules.
(2)
Application of the Rules and
Exemptions.
(a)
Realization of Intent. The intent of the rules will be
realized by applying them to all new installations, reconstructions, and
extensions made subsequent to the effective date of
220 CMR 125.00. However, the
requirements of
220
CMR 125.20 shall apply to existing and new
lines.
(b)
Intent,
Modification.
220 CMR 125.00 shall apply
to all in stallations, except as modified or waived by the Department. They are
intended to be modified or waived for reasons such as, but not limited to , the
following:
1. Where construction requirements
are not justified by the protection secured or where the advantage of
uniformity with existing construction is greater than the advantage of
construction in conformity with the rules or where the rules are shown to be
impracticable; provided equivalent or safer construction can be accomplished in
other ways.
2. Where lines were
designed and commitments made to purchase material prior to the effective date
of
220 CMR 125.00.
Requests for modification or waiver of any rule or rules in
connection with particular installations shall be made in writing to the
Department.
It is not intended that these rules shall supersede rules of
others having jurisdiction in specific areas.
(c)
Temporary
Installations. It will sometimes be necessary to modify or waive
certain rules in cases of temporary installations or installations which are
soon to be discarded or reconstructed, subject to review by the Department
after a 90-day period.
(d)
Interpretations. Interpretations are intended to
clarify the intent of specific rules and are not intended to supply consulting
information on the application of the code. Requests for interpretation may be
addressed to the Department. After due consideration by the Department, the
inquirer will be notified of its decision.
(e)
Waiver in
Emergencies. In case of emergency or pending decision of the
Department, the person responsible for the installation may decide as to
modification or waiver of any rule, subject to review by the Department. The
person responsible shall promptly notify the Department of any emergency action
which does not conform to
220 CMR 125.00.
(3)
Minimum
Requirements. The rules state the minimum requirements for
spacing, clearances, and strength of construction. More ample spacings and
clearances or greater strength of construction may be provided if other
requirements are not neglected in so doing.
(4)
Design and
Construction. All transmission lines shall be of suitable design
and construction for the normal service and conditions under which they are to
be operated.
(5)
Construction and Maintenance. All transmission lines
shall be constructed and maintained so as to reduce hazards to life insofar as
practicable.
