Under which condition is it permissible to move a crane boom or load into the area surrounding a power line?

• A. When the operator is trained
• B. When the line is insulated
• C. When the power line has been deenergized
• D. When a spotter is present

Answer: (C)

Moving a crane or its load into the area around a power line requires eliminating the electrical hazard first. Energized lines can arc or energize the crane itself, leading to severe injury or death if there’s any contact. Insulation on a line does not guarantee safety because insulation can be damaged or fail, and a crane can still contact or arc to the line. Training and having a spotter help with safe operation and awareness, but they do not remove the electrical risk. The only condition that makes it permissible to approach and move in near a power line is when the line has been deenergized (and ideally locked out to prevent reenergization), ensuring there is no voltage driving current if contact occurs.