Can a crane work near power lines?

What the rule says

OSHA's crane standard, 29 CFR 1926.1408, gives three options near power lines: have the line shut off and visibly grounded, keep at least 20 feet away, or keep the crane, its load line and the load at or beyond a table distance. For lines up to 50 kV that table distance is 10 feet. The employer also has to take steps to prevent encroachment, for example a dedicated spotter in continuous contact with the operator or a marked warning line.

What NV Energy handles

NV Energy trims around its own lines, and its service says anyone not qualified must stay at least 10 feet from lines up to 50 kV. The service drop from the pole to your house is the owner's responsibility. Our site lists utility and structure clearance as a service; we do not claim to work on live lines, and the lines are the utility's.

What to do about your tree

If a line is touching or tangled in the tree, stay away, keep everyone back and call NV Energy first. Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Then call us at 775.232.8243; emergency service is available 24 hours a day.

If a tree you want removed stands close to wires, tell the office. The arborist plans the method around the lines, and sometimes the utility must act first. Read trees and power lines in NV Energy territory.

Keep in mind that the rule is about the crane, the load line and the load, not only the tree. A swinging piece, a boom raised too far or a rope blown by wind can reach a line the tree itself does not touch. That is why planning, a spotter and the method all matter, and why some jobs need the utility to act first. Ask the arborist how the lines will be handled on your site.