What guideline must be followed when operating a crane near power lines?

• A. Consider all overhead power lines to be energized until told otherwise.
• B. Always de-energize lines before starting.
• C. Maintain a fixed 50 ft clearance from lines.
• D. Only avoid lines if you can see them clearly.

Answer: (A)

When working a crane near power lines, you must treat overhead lines as energized unless you have verified they are de-energized and properly grounded by qualified personnel. This approach avoids assuming a line is safe just because you can’t see current or think it’s far away, since status can change and contact or arcing can occur unexpectedly. It’s the best guideline because it builds in a conservative step: only proceed near lines after confirming with the appropriate authority that they are not energized, so you’re not relying on assumptions. De-energizing lines isn’t always possible or sufficient on its own, and fixed distances or visibility alone don’t account for voltage, line movement, or unexpected conditions, so they don’t provide reliable protection in all scenarios.