What should you do if lines are within the safe clearance and cannot be de-energized?

• A. Continue lifting slowly.
• B. Stop work and consult qualified personnel to establish safe clearance or de-energize.
• C. Ignore the lines if the load is light.
• D. Adjust outriggers.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that overhead electrical lines create a life-threatening hazard, and the only safe path is to bring in someone with the authority and expertise to control that hazard. If the lines are within safe clearance but cannot be de-energized, stopping work and consulting qualified personnel to establish a safe clearance or to de-energize the lines is the correct course of action. Continuing to lift—even slowly—keeps the crane within reach of the lines and risks electrical contact or arcing, which can cause severe injury or death and damage to equipment. Adjusting outriggers does not remove the electrical hazard and does not guarantee safe clearance. If the lines cannot be de-energized, qualified personnel may determine a safe approach, which could involve delaying the lift, re-routing the load, or arranging for the lines to be de-energized or shielded before proceeding.