Washington Administrative Code
Title 296 - Labor and Industries, Department of
Chapter 296-878 - Safety standards for window cleaning
Section 296-878-17005 - Maintain clearance between window cleaners and power lines
Current through Register Vol. 24-06, March 15, 2024
(1) You must maintain clearances between window cleaners and power lines as indicated in Tables 2 and 3.
Table 2
Minimum Clearances from Power Lines Insulated
Lines
| Voltage | Minimum distance | Alternatives |
| Less than 300 volts | 3 feet (0.9 m) | ---- |
| 300 volts to 50 kv | 10 feet (3.1 m) | ---- |
| More than 50 kv | 10 feet (3.1 m) plus 0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for each 1 kv over 50 kv | 2 times the length of the line insulator, but never less than 10 feet (3.1 m) |
Table 3
Minimum Clearances from Power Lines Uninsulated
Lines
| Voltage | Minimum distance | Alternatives |
| Less than 50 kv | 10 feet (3.1 m) | ---- |
| More than 50 kv | 10 feet (3.1 m) plus 0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for each 1 kv over 50 kv | 2 times the length of the line insulator, but never less than 10 feet (3.1 m) |
follow these procedures when window cleaners need to get closer to power lines than allowed in Tables 2 and 3:
(a) Notify the utility company or electrical system operator of the need to work closer than the minimum clearances to power lines before starting the work;
(b) Begin the work only when the utility company or electrical system operator has deenergized or relocated the lines, or installed protective coverings to prevent accidental contact with the lines.
Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 02-22-027, § 296-878-17005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.
