ࡱ > r bjbjޤ . ƴ ƴ k & & i i i i i 4 h D I V D E ! ! ! U + - | V V V V V V V $Y [ v V i 2 U U 2 2 V i i ! ! 4 V I I I 2 i ! i ! V I 2 V I I V [R @ R ! p* s4 > R oV V 0 V R T <\ H <\ R R <\ i S ` y/ C0 I 0 t G1 f y/ y/ y/ V V EI y/ y/ y/ V 2 2 2 2 <\ y/ y/ y/ y/ y/ y/ y/ y/ y/ & / : Telecommunication SafetyApplication. (a) This article sets forth safety and health standards that apply to the work conditions, practices, means, methods, operations, installations and processes performed at telecommunications centers and at telecommunications field installations, which are located outdoors or in building spaces used for such field installations. "Center" work includes the installation, operation, maintenance, rearrangement, and removal of communications equipment and other associated equipment in telecommunications switching centers. "Field" work includes the installation, operation, maintenance, rearrangement, and removal of conductors and other equipment used for telecommunications service, and of their supporting or containing structures, overhead or underground, on public or private rights of way, including buildings or other structures. (b) Operations or conditions not specifically covered by this Article are subject to all the applicable orders contained in the other Safety Orders, including but not limited to the following: General Industry, Construction and Electrical Safety Orders. (c) The requirements of this article shall not apply to existing installations, provided they are in compliance with the Safety Orders which were in existence and applicable at the time of installation, and documentation is available to substantiate this. (d) All work performed under the provisions of this article shall, unless otherwise specifically provided for, be performed under the direction of Qualified Telecommunications Workers or Qualified Electrical Workers trained in the operations involved. Definitions. Aerial Splicing Platform. A device designed to attach to a cable strand on which an employee(s) may stand or sit while working aloft. Aerial Tent. A small tent designed to protect employees in inclement weather while working on ladders, aerial splicing platforms, or aerial devices. Barricade. A physical obstruction such as tapes, ropes, cones, or "A" frame-type wood and/or metal structure intended to warn and limit access to a work area. Barrier. A physical obstruction which is intended to prevent contact with energized lines or equipment, or to prevent unauthorized access to work area. Bond. An electrical connection from one conductive element to another for the purpose of minimizing potential differences or providing suitable conductivity for fault current or for mitigation of leakage current and electrolytic action. Cable. A conductor with insulation, or a stranded conductor with or without insulation and other coverings (single-conductor cable), or a combination of conductors insulated from one another (multiple-conductor cable). Cable Sheath. A protective covering applied to cables. Circuit. A conductor or system of conductors through which an electric current is intended to flow. May also be an optical link of glass fiber which provides a transmission path for pulses of light. Communication Lines. The conductors and their supporting or containing structures for telephone, telegraph, railroad signal, data, clock, fire, police-alarm, community television antenna and other systems which are used for public or private signal or communication service, and which operate at potentials not exceeding 400 volts to ground or 750 volts between any two points of the circuit, and the transmitted power of which does not exceed 150 watts. When communications lines operate at less than 150 volts to ground, no limit is placed on the capacity of the system. Specifically designed communications cables may include communication circuits not complying with the preceding limitations where such circuits are also used incidentally to supply power to communication equipment. Conductor. A material, usually in the form of a wire, cable, or bus bar, suitable for carrying an electric current. Effectively Grounded. Intentionally connected to earth through a ground connection or connections of sufficiently low impedance and having sufficient current-carrying capacity to prevent the build-up of voltages which may result in undue hazard to employees. Energized Parts (Live Parts). Parts which are of a potential different from that of the earth, or some conducting body which serves in place of the earth. Equipment. A general term which includes materials, fittings, devices, appliances, fixtures, apparatus, and similar items used as part of, or in connection with, an electrical supply or communications installation. Ground (reference). That conductive body, usually earth, to which an electric potential is referenced. Ground (as a noun). A conductive connection, whether intentional or accidental, by which an electric circuit or equipment is connected to reference ground. Ground (as a verb). The connecting or establishment of a connection, whether by intention or accident, of an electric current or equipment to reference ground. Ground Tent. A small tent used to protect employees from inclement weather while working at buried cable pedestal sites or similar locations. Grounded Conductor. A system or circuit conductor which is intentionally grounded. Grounded Systems. A system of conductors in which at least one conductor or point (usually the middle wire, or the neutral point of transformer or generator windings) is intentionally grounded, either solidly or through a current-limiting device (not a current-interrupting device). Grounding Electrode (Ground Electrode). A conductor imbedded in the earth, used for maintaining ground potential on conductors connected to it, and for dissipating into the earth current conducted to it. Grounding Electrode Conductor (Grounding Conductor). A conductor used to connect equipment or the grounded circuit of a wiring system to a grounding electrode. Guy Wire. A tension member used to withstand an otherwise unbalanced force on a pole, crossarm or overhead structure. Insulated. Separated from other conducting surfaces by a dielectric substance (including air space) offering a high resistance to the passage of current. NOTE: When any object is said to be insulated, it is understood to be insulated in suitable manner for the conditions to which it is subjected. Otherwise, it is, within the purpose of these orders, uninsulated. Insulating coverings of conductors are one means of making the conductor insulated. Insulation (as applied to cable). That which is relied upon to insulate the conductor from other conductors or conducting parts or from ground. Joint Use. The sharing of a common facility, such as a manhole, trench or pole, by two or more different kinds of utilities (e.g., power and telecommunications). Ladder Platform. A device designed to facilitate working aloft from an extension ladder. Ladder Seat. A removable seat used to facilitate work at an elevated position on rolling ladders in telecommunication centers. Manhole. A subsurface enclosure which personnel may enter for the purpose of installing, operating, and maintaining submersible equipment and/or cable. Manhole Platform. A platform consisting of separate planks, plywood or other material which are laid across and secured to steel platform supports. The ends of the supports are engaged in the manhole cable racks. Microwave Transmission. The act of communicating or signaling utilizing a frequency between 1 GHz (gigahertz) and 300 GHz inclusively. Nominal Voltage. The nominal voltage of a system or circuit is the value assigned to a system or circuit of a given voltage class for the purpose of convenient designation. The actual voltage may vary above or below this value. Optical Link. Glass strands encased in flexible cables used to transmit pulses of light from one point to another. Pole Balcony or Seat. A balcony or seat used as a support for workers at pole-mounted equipment or terminal boxes. A typical device consists of a bolted assembly of steel details and a wooden platform. Steel braces run from the pole to the underside of the balcony. Pole Platform. A platform intended for use by a worker in an elevated position adjacent to a pole. Qualified Person. A person designated by the company who by reason of training and experience has demonstrated the ability to safely perform assigned duties. Qualified Telecommunications Worker. A worker who, through related training and/or on the job experience, is familiar with the techniques and hazards of telecommunications work and the equipment used in the specific operations involved; and has demonstrated the ability to safely perform assigned duties, and, where required, is properly licensed in accordance with federal, state, or local laws and regulations. Strand. Wires laid parallel and twisted used to support wires, cables and equipment; sometimes called aerial strand, supporting strand, suspension strand, cable strand or messenger. Suitable. (A) Function. Capable of performing with safety the particular function specified in these Orders, or (B) Equipment. Equipment or devices intended for the anticipated exposure which by way of design, strength and quality will eliminate, preclude or mitigate a particular hazard, and (C) Use. The conditions, practices, means, operations or processes used which will eliminate, preclude or mitigate a particular hazard. Telecommunications. A science dealing with the provisions of Communication Service. Telecommunication Center. An installation of communication equipment under the exclusive control of an organization providing telecommunications service, that is located outdoors or in a vault, chamber, or a building space used primarily for such installations. NOTE: Telecommunication centers are facilities established, equipped and arranged in accordance with engineered plans for the purpose of providing telecommunications service. They may be located on premises owned or leased by the organization providing telecommunication service, or on the premises owned or leased by others. This definition includes switch rooms (whether electromechanical, electronic, or computer controlled), terminal rooms, power rooms, repeater rooms, transmitter and receiver rooms, switchboard operating rooms, cable vaults, and miscellaneous communications equipment rooms. Simulation rooms of telecommunication centers for training or developmental purposes are also included. Telecommunication Line Truck. A truck used to transport personnel, tools, and material, and to serve as a traveling workshop for telecommunication installation and maintenance work. It is usually equipped with auxiliary equipment for setting poles, digging holes, and elevating material or personnel. Telecommunication Service. The furnishing of a capability to signal or communicate at a distance by means such as telephone, telegraph, police and fire alarm, community antenna television, or similar system, using wire, conventional cable, coaxial cable, wave guides, microwave and radio transmission, or other similar means. Vault. An enclosure above or below ground which personnel may enter and which is used for the purpose of installing, operating, and/or maintaining equipment and/or cable which need not be of submersible design. Vault, Unvented. A vault in which the only openings are access openings. Vault, Vented. A vault with provision for air changes using exhaust flue stack(s) and air intake(s), which operate on differentials of pressure and/or temperature resulting in air flow throughout the vault. General. (a) Illumination. Illumination shall be provided as needed to perform the work safely. (1) Telecommunications Centers. Lighting in telecommunication centers shall be provided in an adequate amount such that continuing work operations, routine observations, and the passage of employees can be carried out in a safe and healthful manner. Additional lighting shall be provided as required for specific tasks. (2) Field Work. Whenever natural light is inadequate, suitable artificial illumination shall be provided. (b) Working Surfaces. Guardrails and toeboards may be omitted on distribution frame mezzanine platforms to permit access to equipment. This exemption applies only on the side or sides of the platform facing the frames and only on those portions of the platform adjacent to equipment frames. (c) Working Spaces, Aisles. Working spaces provided by "maintenance aisles," or "wiring aisles," between equipment frames lineups in telecommunications centers shall not be considered as parts of egress of the General Industry Safety Orders. (d) Special Doors. When blastproof or power-actuated doors are installed in specially designed hardsite security buildings and spaces, they shall be designed and installed so that they can be used as a means of egress in emergencies. (e) Medical and First Aid. First-aid supplies recommended by a consulting physician and shall be maintained and shall be easily accessible. (f) Hazardous Substances. All work involving hazardous substances shall comply with Group 16 of the General Industry Safety Orders. Highway Mobile Vehicles and Trailers may be equipped to carry more than one LP gas container provided all provisions of the Unfired Pressure Vessel Safety Orders are complied with. (g) Work Space. Suitable means shall be provided to permit employees to safely perform work on telecommunications equipment. (h) Approach Distances to Exposed Energized Overhead Power Lines or Parts. The company shall require that no employee approaches or takes any conductive object closer to any electrically energized overhead power lines or parts than prescribed in Table TC-1, unless: (1) The employee is insulated or guarded from the energized parts (insulating gloves rated for the voltage involved shall be considered adequate insulation for the employee from the energized parts for voltage not to exceed 7,500 volts); or (2) The energized parts are insulated or guarded from the employee and any other conductive object at a different potential; or (3) The power conductors and equipment are de-energized and grounded. Table TC-1 Approach Distances to Exposed Energized Overhead Power Lines and Parts by Qualified Telecommunication WorkersVolage Range (Phase to Phase, RMS)Approach Distance (Inches) 300 V and less 12 Over 300 V, not over 600 V 18 Over 600 V, not over 2kV 24 Over 2kV, not over 15kV 36 Over 15kV, not voer 37kV 42 Over 37kV, not voer 87.5k 48 Over 87.5kV, not over 121kV 54 Over 121kV, not over 140kV Avoid Contact (i) Inclement Weather. Work from structures shall be discontinued when adverse weather such as high winds, ice on structures, or progress of an electrical storm in the immediate vicinity, makes the work unsafe. Training. (a) Companies shall provide training in the various precautions and safe practices relating to employees' job assignment(s) as described in this article and other applicable orders, and shall require that employees do not engage in these activities until they have received proper training. However, where the company can demonstrate that an employee is already trained in the precautions and safe practices required herein prior to employment, additional training need not be provided. Where training is required, it shall consist of on-the-job or classroom-type training or a combination of both. The company shall certify that employees have been trained by preparing a certification record which includes the identity of the person trained, the signature of the company or the person who conducted the training, and the date the training was completed. The certification record shall be prepared at the completion of the training maintained for the duration of the employee's assignment. The certification record shall be made available upon request to the Division. Such training shall, where appropriate, include the following subjects: (1) Recognition and avoidance of dangers relating to encounters with harmful substances, and animal, insect, or plant life. (2) Procedures to be followed in emergency situations. (3) First-aid training, including instruction in artificial respiration and/or cardiopulmonary resuscitation and refresher course as needed to keep training updated. (4) Work area protection and traffic control. Employee Protection in Public Areas. (a) Before work is begun in the vicinity of vehicular or pedestrian traffic which may endanger employees, warning signs and/or flags or other traffic control devices shall be placed conspicuously to alert and channel approaching traffic. Where further protection is needed, barriers shall be utilized. At night, warning lights shall be prominently displayed and excavated areas shall be enclosed with protective barricades. (b) If work exposes energized or moving parts that are normally protected, danger signs shall be displayed and barricades erected, as necessary, to warn other personnel in the area. (c) The company shall require that an employee finding any crossed or fallen wires which create or may create a hazardous situation at the work area: (1) Remains on guard or adopts other adequate means to warn other employees of the danger; and (2) Has the proper authority notified at the earliest practical moment. (d) Company shall require employees exposed to vehicular traffic hazards outside the protected area to comply with the provisions specified in Construction Safety. Tools and Personal Protective Equipment. (a) Personal protective equipment, protective devices and special tools needed for the work of employees shall be provided and the company shall require that they are used by employees. Before each day's use the company shall ensure that these personal protective devices, tools, and equipment are carefully inspected by a qualified person to ascertain that they are in good condition. (b) Defective tool and equipment shall be removed from service. (c) Telecommunication linemen's body belts, safety straps and lanyards shall meet the requirements contained in the High Voltage Electrical Safety Orders. Rubber Insulating Equipment. Rubber insulating equipment shall comply with the provisions of the High-Voltage Electrical Safety Orders. Pole Climbers. (a) Pole climbers shall not be used if the gaffs are less than 1 1/4 inches in length as measured on the underside of the gaff. The gaffs of pole climbers shall be covered with safety caps or equivalent protection when not being used for their intended use. (b) The company shall require that pole climbers are visually inspected by a qualified person for the following conditions: Fractured or cracked gaffs or leg irons, loose or dull gaffs, broken straps or buckles. If any of these conditions exist, the defect shall be corrected before the climbers are used. (c) Pole climbers shall be inspected as required in this section before each day's use and a gaff cut-out test performed at least weekly when in use. (d) Pole climbers shall not be used except on wood poles. Poles, Towers and Ladders. (a) The spacing between permanent and detachable steps installed on poles and towers shall be not more than 18 inches (36 inches on any one side). Spacing shall be uniform except where working, standing or access steps are required. The lowest permanent step shall be not less than 7 feet 6 inches from the ground line. Permanent steps for poles and towers shall not unnecessarily obstruct the climbing space and shall have a minimum diameter of 5/8-inch and a minimum clear tread width of 4 1/2 inches. The lowest detachable step shall be no more than 24 inches above ground level. Detachable steps shall be properly secured when in use. (b) Pole Steps. Wood poles (such as poles with pole and/or strand mounted terminals) which are expected to be frequently climbed for maintenance or operating purposes shall be stepped in accordance with the regulations of the DOCPROPERTY "z:|_State" \* MERGEFORMAT [State] Public Utilities Commission. (c) The company shall require that no employee nor any material or equipment will be supported on any portion of a ladder unless it is first determined by inspection by a qualified person that such ladder is adequately strong, in good condition, and properly secured in place. (d) Portable metal ladders shall not be used in telecommunications work, except in vaults and manholes. (e) Portable wood ladders intended for general use shall not be painted but may be coated with a translucent nonconductive coating. Portable wood ladders shall not be longitudinally reinforced with metal. (f) Portable wood ladders that are not being carried on vehicles and are not in active use shall be stored under cover. (g) The applicable provisions of the General Industry Safety Orders shall apply to rolling ladders used in telecommunications centers, except that existing ladders may have a minimum inside width, between the side rails, of at least 8 inches. (h) When in use, rolling ladders shall be secured to prevent inadvertent displacement. (i) Climbing ladders or stairways on scaffolds used for access and egress shall be affixed or built into the scaffold by proper design and engineering, and shall be so located that their use will not disturb the stability of the scaffold. (1) If a portable ladder is affixed to the scaffold, it shall be securely attached and shall have rungs meeting the spacing and clearances requirements. (2) If a fixed ladder is installed on the scaffold it shall comply with the General Industry Safety Orders. (3) Stairways shall comply with the General Industry Safety Orders. (4) Horizontal end braces may also be designed and used as a climbing device provided that the steps are: (A) Parallel and level. (B) Uniformly spaced throughout the climb. (C) Not less than 16 inches in width. (D) Not less than 12 inches nominal nor more than 16 inches nominal apart on center. (E) Provided with sufficient clearance to provide a good handhold and foot space. (5) Those surfaces of rungs and steps designed for use in ascending and descending shall be corrugated, serrated, knurled, dimpled, or coated with skid-resistant material. (j) When a ladder is supported by an aerial strand, and ladder hooks or other supports are not being used, the ladder shall be extended at least 2 feet above the strand and shall be secured to it (e.g. lashed or held by a safety strap around the strand and ladder side rail). When a ladder is supported by a pole, it shall be securely lashed to the pole unless the ladder is specifically designed to prevent movement when used in this application. Other Tools and Personal Protective Equipment. (a) Tent Heaters. Flame-type heaters shall not be used within ground tents or on platforms within aerial tents unless: (1) The tent covers are constructed of fire-resistant materials, and (2) Adequate ventilation is provided to maintain safe oxygen levels and avoid harmful build-up of combustion products and combustible gases. (b) Torches. Torches may be used on aerial splicing platforms or in buckets enclosed by tents provided the tent material is constructed of fire-resistant material and the torch is turned off when not in actual use. Aerial tents shall be adequately ventilated while the torch is in operation. (c) Soldering Devices. Electrical soldering devices shall be grounded. Defective soldering devices shall be immediately removed from service. EXCEPTION: 1: Soldering devices used exclusively for work on live circuits. Such devices shall be tested for current leakage not less than each 3 months. EXCEPTION: 2: Soldering devices supplied through an isolating transformer with an ungrounded secondary of not over 50 volts. EXCEPTION: 3: Soldering devices protected by a system of double insulation, or its equivalent. Where such a system is employed, the equipment shall be distinctively marked. (d) Lead Work. All lead work shall comply with the General Industry Safety Orders. The wiping of lead joints using melted solder, gas fueled torches, soldering irons or other appropriate heating devices, and the soldering of wires or other electrical connections do not constitute the welding, cutting and brazing described in Group 10 of the General Industry Safety Orders. When operated from commercial power the metal housing of electric solder pots shall be grounded. The company shall require that wiping gloves or cloths and eye protection are used in lead wiping operations. A drip pan to catch hot lead drippings shall also be provided and used. Vehicle-Mounted Material Handling Devices and Other Mechanical Equipment (General). (a) The company shall require that visual inspections are made of the equipment by a qualified person each day the equipment is to be used to ascertain that it is in good condition. (b) The company shall require that tests shall be made at the beginning of each shift by a qualified person to ensure the vehicle brakes and operating systems are in proper working condition. (c) All rubber-tired, self-propelled scrapers, rubber-tired front-end loaders, rubber-tired dozers, agricultural and industrial tractors, crawler tractors, crawler-type loaders, and motor graders, with or without attachments, that are used in telecommunications work shall have roll-over protective structures, when required, in accordance with Article 25 of the General Industry Safety Orders or Section 1596 of the Construction Safety Orders as applicable. (d) Vehicle-mounted elevating and rotating work platform devices shall not be operated with any conductive part of the equipment closer to exposed energized power lines than the clearances set forth in Table TC-1 of this Article. Hoisting Equipment. (a) Hoisting equipment shall not be operated with any conductive part of the equipment closer to exposed energized high-voltage conductors and equipment than the clearances set forth in Table TC-1 of this Article. (b) When hoisting equipment is used to handle poles near energized high-voltage conductors and equipment, these operations shall comply with the requirements contained in the General Section (h) and Overhead Lines (i). (c) Moving parts of equipment and machinery carried on or mounted on telecommunications vehicles shall be guarded, operated, and maintained in accordance with applicable provisions of the General Industry Safety Orders. Materials Handling And Storage (a) Poles. When working with poles in piles or stacks, work shall be performed from the ends of the poles as much as possible, and precautions shall be taken for the safety of employees at the outer end of the pole. During pole hauling operations, all loads shall be secured to prevent displacement. Lights, reflectors and/or flags shall be displayed on the end and sides of the load as necessary. In the case of hoisting machinery equipped with a positive stop load-holding device, it shall be permissible for the operator to leave the controls (while a load is suspended) for the sole purpose of assisting in positioning the load prior to landing it. Prior to and during the unloading steel, poles, crossarms, and similar material, the load shall be thoroughly examined to ascertain that the load has not shifted, that binders or stakes have not broken, and that the load is not otherwise hazardous to employees. 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) Cable Reels. Cable reels shall be chocked or otherwise restrained when there is a possibility of inadvertent movement. Cable Fault Locating and Testing. (a) Employees involved in using high voltages to locate trouble or test cables shall be instructed in the precautions necessary for their own safety, and the safety of other employees. (b) Before the voltage is applied, cable conductors shall be isolated. Employees shall be warned, by such techniques as briefing and tagging at all affected locations, to stay clear while the voltage is applied. Grounding for Employee Protection--Pole Lines. (a) Power Conductors. Electric power conductors and equipment shall be considered as energized unless the employee can visually determine that they are bonded to one of the grounds listed in Subsection (d) of this Section. (b) Nonworking Open Wire. Nonworking open wire communications lines shall be bonded to one of the grounds listed in Subsection (d) of this Section. (c) Vertical Power Conduit, Power Ground Wires and Street Light Fixtures. (1) Metal power conduit, exposed vertical power ground wires, and street light fixtures which are below communications attachments or less than 20 inches above these attachments, shall be considered energized and shall be tested for voltage unless the employee can visually determine that they are bonded to the communications suspension strand or cable sheath. (2) If no hazardous voltage is shown by the voltage test, a temporary bond shall be placed between such street light fixture, exposed vertical power grounding conductor, or metallic power conduit and the communications cable strand. Temporary bonds used for this purpose shall have sufficient conductivity to carry at least 500 amperes for a period of one second without fusing. (d) Suitable Protective Grounding. Acceptable grounds for protective grounding are as follows: (1) A vertical ground wire which has been tested, found safe, and is connected to a power system multigrounded neutral or the grounded neutral of a power secondary system where there are at least three services connected; (2) Communications cable sheath or shield and its supporting strand where the sheath or shield is: (A) Bonded to an underground or buried cable which is connected to a central office ground, or (B) Bonded to an underground metallic piping system, or, (C) Bonded to a power system multigrounded neutral or grounded neutral of a power secondary system which has at least three services connected; (3) Guys which are bonded to the grounds specified in Subsection (d)(1) and (2) of this Section and which have continuity uninterrupted by an insulator; and (4) If all of the preceding grounds are not available, arrays of driven ground rods where the resultant resistance to ground will be low enough to eliminate danger to personnel or permit prompt operation of protective devices. (e) Attaching and Removing Temporary Bonds. When attaching grounds (bonds), the first attachment shall be made to the protective ground. When removing bonds, the connection to the line or equipment shall be removed first. Insulating gloves shall be worn during these operations. (f) Temporary Grounding of Suspension Strand. (1) The suspension strand shall be grounded to the existing grounds listed in Subsection (d) of this Section when being placed on jointly used poles and while performing work during thunderstorms. (2) Where unsupported power crossings are encountered, the strand shall be bonded to an existing ground listed in Subsection (d) of this Section as close as possible to the crossing. This bonding is not required where crossings are made on a common crossing pole unless there is an upward change in grade at the pole. (Tie-down stress on the strand.) In this case, the bonding shall be at an adjacent pole. (3) Where roller-type bonds are used, they shall be restrained so as to avoid stressing the electrical connections. (4) Bonds between the suspension strand and the existing ground shall be at least No. 6 AWG copper. (5) Temporary bonds shall be left in place until the strand has been tensioned, dead-ended, and permanently grounded. EXCEPTION: The installation of insulated strand. (g) Antenna Work-Radio Transmitting Stations 3-30 MHZ. (1) Prior to grounding a radio transmitting station antenna, the company shall ensure that the person in charge: (A) Prepares and signs a danger tag, (B) Requests the transmitting technician to shut down the transmitter and to ground the antenna with its grounding switch, (C) Is notified by the transmitting technician that the transmitter has been shut down, and (D) Tags the antenna ground switch personally in the presence of the transmitting technician after the antenna has been grounded by the transmitting technician. (2) Power shall not be applied to the antenna, nor shall the grounding switch be opened under any circumstances while the tag is affixed. (A) Where no grounding switches are provided, grounding sticks shall be used, one on each side of line, and tags shall be placed on the grounding sticks, antenna switch, or plate power switch in a conspicuous place. (B) When necessary to further reduce excessive radio frequency pickup, ground sticks or short circuits shall be placed directly on the transmission lines near the transmitter in addition to the regular grounding switches. (C) In other cases, the antenna lines may be disconnected from ground and the transmitter to reduce pickup at the point in the field. (3) All radio frequency line wires shall be tested for pickup with an insulated probe before they are handled either with bare hands or with metal tools. (4) The company shall require that the transmitting technician warn the riggers about adjacent lines which are, or may become, energized. (5) The company shall require that when antenna work has been completed, the person in charge of the job returns to the transmitter, notifies the transmitting technician in charge that work has been completed, and personally removes the tag(s) previously attached. Overhead Lines. (a) Handling Suspension Strand. (1) The company shall ensure that when handling cable suspension strand which is being installed on poles carrying exposed energized power conductors, employees shall wear insulating gloves and shall avoid body contact with the strand until after it has been tensioned, dead-ended and permanently grounded. (2) The strand shall be restrained against inadvertent upward movement during installation: (A) On joint-use poles, where there is an upward change in grade at the pole, and (B) On non-joint-use poles, where the line crosses under energized power conductors. (b) Need for Testing Wood Poles. Unless temporary guys or braces are attached, the following poles shall be tested in accordance with Subsection (c) of this Section and determined to be safe before employees are permitted to climb them: (1) Dead-end poles, except properly braced or guyed "Y" or "T" cable junction poles, (2) Straight line poles which are not storm guyed and where adjacent span lengths exceed 165 feet. (3) Poles at which there is a downward change in grade and which are not guyed or braced corner poles or cable junction poles. (4) Poles which support only telephone drop wire, and (5) Poles which carry less than ten communication line wires. On joint-use poles, one power line wire shall be considered as two communication wires for purposes of this subsection. (6) Poles at which the cable strand or guy tension is to be changed. (c) Pole Inspection and Tests. (1) Companies shall establish an effective written pole inspection and testing program and all involved employees shall be trained therein. (2) Prior to climbing erected poles or other elevated structures intended to support overhead lines or equipment, a qualified person(s) shall conduct inspections and tests as required by Section 8615(b) to assure that such poles or structures are in safe condition for the work to be performed. (3) Where poles or structures are determined to be unsafe for climbing, they shall be marked and not be climbed until made safe by guying, bracing, or other adequate means. (d) Test Requirements for Cable Suspension Strand. (1) Before attaching a splicing platform to a cable suspension strand, the strand shall be tested and determined to have strength sufficient to support the weight of the platform and the employee. Where the strand crosses above power conductors or railroad tracks it may not be tested but shall be inspected in accordance with Subsection (f) of this Section. (2) The following method or an equivalent method shall be used for testing the strength of the strand: A rope, at least 3/8-inch in diameter, shall be thrown over the strand. On joint lines, the rope shall be passed over the strand using tree pruner handles or a wire raising tool. If two employees are present, both shall grip the double rope and slowly transfer their entire weight to the rope and attempt to raise themselves off the ground. If only one employee is present, one end of the rope which has been passed over the strand shall be tied to the bumper of the truck, or other equally secure anchorage. The employee then shall grasp the other end of the rope and attempt to rise off the ground. (e) Inspection of Strand. Where strand passes over electric power conductors or railroad tracks, it shall be inspected from an elevated working position at each pole supporting the span in question. The strand shall not be used to support any splicing platform, scaffold or cable car, if any of the following conditions exist: (1) Corrosion so that no galvanizing can be detected, (2) One or more wires of the strand are broken, (3) Worn spots, or (4) Burn marks such as those caused by contact with electric power conductors. (f)(1) Elevated Work Platforms. Unless standard railings meeting the requirements of Section 3209 of the General Industry Safety Orders are provided, suitable fall-arresting devices such as safety straps and body belts shall be used while working on elevated work platforms including aerial splicing platforms, pole platforms, ladder platforms, pole balconies and pole seats. (2) Ladder Platform. A ladder platform shall consist of a supporting surface not less than 9 inches by 18 inches. The rear edge of the platform and the support member shall be equipped to lock the platform to the ladder rungs. (3) Pole Platform. A pole platform shall consist of a supporting surface not less than 10 inches by 40 inches equipped at one end with a hinged chain binder for securing the platform to a pole. A brace shall be provided from the pole to the underside of the platform. (4) Splicing Platform. An aerial splicing platform shall consist of a supporting surface approximately 3 feet by 4 feet furnished with fiber or synthetic ropes for suspending the platform, detachable guy ropes for anchoring it, and a device for raising and lowering it with a handline. (g) When work is performed where the employee's feet are at a position more than 4 feet above ground on poles, towers or similar structures, the company shall require the employee use body belts and/or safety belts and safety straps and/or lanyards. (h) Installing and Removing Wire and Cable. Before installing or removing wire or cable, the pole or structure shall be guyed, braced, or otherwise supported, as necessary, to prevent failure of the pole or structure. (i) Handling Poles Near Energized High-Voltage Conductors and Equipment. Except qualified electrical workers complying with Article 36 of High-Voltage Electrical Safety Orders: (1) Joint-use poles shall not be set, moved, or removed where the nominal voltage of open electrical power conductors exceeds 34.5kV phase to phase (20kV to ground). (2) In joint lines where the power voltage is greater than 600 volts but less than 34.5kV phase to phase (20kV to ground), poles being placed, moved, or removed shall be insulated with either a rubber insulating blanket, a fiberglass box guide, or equivalent protective equipment. Work procedures shall be developed and employed to minimize the possibility of the pole and the protective equipment from contacting the power conductors. The guard or insulating material used to protect the pole shall meet the appropriate 3-minute proof test voltage requirements contained in the ASTM-D-1048-1981, which are hereby incorporated by reference. (3) Where poles are being removed, insulation of the pole is not required if the pole is cut off 2 feet or more below the lowest power conductor and also cut off near the ground line. (4) Suitable insulating gloves shall be worn when handling the pole with either hands or tools, when there exists a possibility that the pole may contact an energized high-voltage conductor. (5) During pole handling operations, employees standing on the ground shall not be permitted to step onto or contact equipment or machinery while working near energized high-voltage conductors or equipment unless the employees are using suitable protective equipment for the voltages involved. (j) Metal Tapes and Ropes. (1) Metal measuring tapes, metal measuring ropes, or tapes containing conductive strands shall not be used when working near exposed energized parts. (2) Where it is necessary to measure clearances from energized parts, only nonconductive devices shall be used. Underground Lines. The provisions of this section apply to the guarding of manholes and street openings, and to the ventilation and testing for gas in manholes and unvented vaults, where telecommunications field work is performed on or with underground lines. (a) Guarding Manholes and Street Openings. (1) When covers of manholes or vaults are removed, the opening shall be promptly guarded by a railing, temporary cover, or other suitable temporary barrier which is appropriate to prevent an accidental fall through the opening and to protect employees working in the manhole from foreign objects entering the manhole. (2) While work is being performed in the manhole, a person with basic first-aid training shall be immediately available to render assistance if there is cause for believing that a hazard exists. Examples of manhole worksite hazards which shall be considered to constitute a hazard include, but are not limited to: (A) Manhole worksites where hazards are created by traffic patterns that cannot be corrected by provisions of Section 8604(a) and Section 8616(a)(1). (B) Manhole worksites that are subject to unusual water hazards that cannot be abated by conventional means. (C) Manhole worksites that are occupied jointly with power utilities as described in Subsection (c) of this Section. (D) Where combustible or explosive gas vapors have been initially detected at an explosive level. (E) Where toxic or otherwise hazardous substances are used in such quantities that the work operations or inadvertent spills would create unsafe airborne concentrations or other bodily injury exposures. (F) Where open flame torches are used in the work procedure. (G) Where hazardous substances:--i.e. pesticides, herbicides, etc. are encountered. (H) When employees are required to perform extended night work in manholes, except where constant voice communication is maintained with other person(s) who can render ready assistance. This shall not prohibit performing emergency trouble work without assistance providing the work can be performed safely. (b) Requirements Prior to Entering Manholes and Unvented Vaults. (1) Before an employee enters a manhole or unvented vault, the following steps shall be taken: (A) The company shall determine that a confined space condition as defined in General Industry Safety Orders Article 108 is non-existent. If a confined space condition exists, the requirements of Article 108 shall be followed. Otherwise, the requirements set forth herein shall be followed. (B) The internal atmosphere shall be tested for combustible gas and, except when continuous forced ventilation is provided, the atmosphere shall also be tested for oxygen deficiency. (C) When unsafe conditions are detected by testing or other means, the work area shall be ventilated by mechanical means and otherwise made safe before entry. (2) An adequate continuous supply of air shall be provided while work is performed in unvented vaults and manholes under any of the following conditions: (A) Where combustible or explosive gas vapors have been initially detected and subsequently reduced to a safe level by ventilation, (B) Where organic solvents are used in the work procedure, (C) Where open flame torches are used in the work procedure, (D) Where the manhole or vault is located in that portion of a public right-of-way open to vehicular traffic and/or exposed to a seepage of gas or gases, or (E) Where a toxic gas or oxygen deficiency is found. EXCEPTION: Work in central office cable vaults that are adequately ventilated. (c) Manhole Platform. A manhole platform shall consist of nominal 2-inch by 12-inch lumber of a grade no less than that of a "Structural Plank" as defined (see Lumber) in Section 1504 "Definition" of the Construction Safety Orders, or other nonconductive material of equal strength. (d) Joint Power and Telecommunication Manholes. While work is being performed in a manhole occupied jointly by an electric utility and a telecommunication utility, an employee with basic first-aid training shall be available in the immediate vicinity to render emergency assistance as may be required. The employee whose presence is required in the immediate vicinity for the purposes of rendering emergency assistance is not to be precluded from occasionally entering a manhole to provide assistance other than in an emergency. (e) Ladders. Metal ladders having non-skid rungs, wooden ladders or portable reinforced plastic ladders shall be used to enter and exit manholes exceeding 4 feet in depth. (f) Flames. When open flames are used in manholes, the following precautions shall be taken to protect against the accumulation of combustible gas: (1) A test for combustible gas shall be made immediately before using the open flame device, and at least once per hour while using the device; and (2) A fuel tank (e.g., acetylene) may not be in the manhole unless in actual use. Eye Protection. (a) Microwave. Companies shall require that employees do not look into an open waveguide which is connected to an energized source of microwave radiation. (b) Fiber Optics. Companies shall require that employees do not look: (1) Into the beam of an operating laser diode beam, or (2) Into the end of an optical fiber emitting sufficient energy to cause damage to the eye. Microwave Transmission. (a) Hazardous Area. Accessible areas associated with microwave communication systems where the electromagnetic radiation level exceeds the radiation exposure limits given in Section 5085 of the General Industry Safety Orders shall be posted as described in that Section. The lower half of the warning symbol shall include the following: Radiation in this area may exceed hazard limitations and special precautions are required. Obtain specific instruction before entering. (b) Protective Measures. When an employee works in an area where the electromagnetic radiation exceeds the radiation protection guide, the company shall institute measures that ensure that the employee's exposure is not greater than that permitted by the radiation guide. Such measures shall include, but not be limited to, those of an administrative or engineering nature or those involving personal protective equipment. Working Alone Working Alone: In the event that a worker is working alone, the supervisor will ensure that periodic contact is made with the employee on a regular basis, as scheduled by the job hazard assessment. If the nature of the work were hazardous, then a shorter time frame would be set up. Contact will be made via cell phones or radios. Application Of Working Alone DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] from time to time may require that an employee be on a job site working alone. Working alone is a potential hazard for any worker or employee not matter how experienced they are in their field of work. During this time the employee who is working alone does not have any other assistance or if help is not readily available in the case of an emergency or theworkerisinjuredorill, the following will apply as the policy and procedure for DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name]: Hazard Assessment To assess this hazard DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] will review records and past incidents, and identify measures or actions needed to correct any hazards. Precautions Required Effective Communication DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] will provideeffectiveradio,telephoneorotherelectroniccommunication between a worker who works alone and persons capableofassistingtheworkerinanemergencyoriftheworkerisinjuredorill. Alternate Forms Of Communication If effective electronic communication is not practicable or readily available at the work site,the DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] will ensurethat: (a) theemployeroranothercompetentworkervisitstheworker,or* (b) theworkercontactstheemployeroranothercompetentworker*. * See the below subsection. Visit & Contact Time Intervals *The visits or contact under the above sectionmust be at intervals of time appropriatetothenatureofthehazardsassociatedwiththeworkerswork. Rescue and Emergency Services Overview DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] has develop and implement procedures for summoning rescue and emergency services, for rescuing climbers from elevated heights on poles and towers, for providing necessary emergency services to rescued employees, and for preventing unauthorized personnel from attempting a rescue. DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] has certified that the rescue and emergency services have been trained, certified and will: Evaluate a prospective rescuer's ability to respond to a rescue summons in a timely manner, considering the hazard(s) identified; Evaluate a prospective rescue service's ability, in terms of proficiency with rescue-related tasks and equipment, to function appropriately while rescuing climbers from the particular elevated heights on pole and towers identified; Select a rescue team or service from those evaluated that: Has the capability to reach the victim(s) within a time frame that is appropriate for securing the safety of the climber; Is equipped for and proficient in performing the needed rescue services; Inform each rescue team or service of the hazards they may confront when called on to perform rescue at the site; and Provide the rescue team or service selected with access to all elevated heights on pole and towers from which rescue may be necessary so that the rescue service can develop appropriate rescue plans and practice rescue operations. Tower Climbers Each and every day prior to climbing a tower DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] will have a pre-climb meeting and equipment inspection. DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] will adhere to our Fall Protection chapter in this manual as well as the Tower Climbers items detailed in this chapter and section. (a) Tower climbers shall be covered with safety caps and gear or equivalent protection when not being used for their intended use. (b) The company shall require that tower climbers are visually inspected by a qualified person for the proper climbing equipment that is in good condition and does not appear to be faulty or excessively worn. If any of these conditions exist, the defect shall be corrected before the climbers are allowed to climb. (c) Tower climbers shall be inspected as required in this section before each day's use or climb. (d) Tower climbers are required to adhere to a 100% tie-off policy at all times, NO EXCEPTIONS. This will save your life!!! DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] has a 100% tie-off policy. DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] Health & Safety Plan STYLEREF "Heading 1" \* MERGEFORMAT Telecommunication Safety DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Date Created" \* MERGEFORMAT [Date_Created] Page: PAGE 4 Copyright Protected 1991 Current HYPERLINK "http://www.OSHASafetyManual.com" www.oshasafetymanual.com All rights reserved. Do not duplicate without written permission. * 800-347-1119 DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] Health & Safety Plan STYLEREF "Heading 1" \* MERGEFORMAT Telecommunication Safety DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Date Created" \* MERGEFORMAT [Date_Created] Page: PAGE 1 Copyright Protected 1991 Current HYPERLINK "http://www.OSHASafetyManual.com" www.oshasafetymanual.com All rights reserved. Do not duplicate without written permission. * 800-347-1119 DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Company Name (as it will be printed)" \* MERGEFORMAT [Company_Name] Health & Safety Plan STYLEREF "Heading 1" \* MERGEFORMAT Error! No text of specified style in document. DOCPROPERTY "z:|_Date Created" \* MERGEFORMAT [Date_Created] Page: PAGE 1 Copyright Protected 1991 Current HYPERLINK "http://www.OSHASafetyManual.com" www.oshasafetymanual.com All rights reserved. Do not duplicate without written permission. * 800-347-1119 ' y h5 r5 ? ? B B H H #M MM O O