Line Clearance

Overhead Line Work » Line-Clearance Tree Trimming Operations

Line-Clearance Tree Trimming Operations

Line-clearance tree trimming refers to the pruning, trimming, repairing, maintaining, removing, or clearing of trees or the cutting of brush that is near (within 10 feet of) energized power lines.. The line-clearance tree trimming equipment requirements apply to qualified employees and line-clearance tree trimmers who are clearing lines with brush clippers, sprayers, stump cutters, chain saws, backpack power cutters, climbing ropes, or safety saddles.

OSHA recognizes three different qualification levels for line-clearance tree trimmers:

• Unqualified employees (that is, electrically unqualified)

• 269-qualified employees

• Line-clearance tree trimmers

Unqualified employees must maintain the minimum approach distances of at least 10 feet from overhead power lines. 

269-qualified employees must use their 269 specific skills and any other tree cutting procedures and training to safely trim trees. 

The minimum approach distances (MAD) for unqualified workers are specified . These MADs start at 10 feet for systems 50kV and below and increase 4 inches for every 10 kV over 50 kV.

Line-clearance tree trimmers are workers that have received specialized training so they can work within 10 feet of energized power lines and equipment. These workers must:

• Determine the voltage(s) of any lines that may pose a hazard before work begins. Alternatively, all lines must be considered as operating at the voltage of the line with the highest voltage.

• Ensure their body parts and any ladders, platforms, or aerial devices being used remain outside the minimum approach distance from any energized part. 

• Use only insulated tools and equipment to remove branches and limbs that are in contact with, or are within the minimum approach distance of, energized parts. .

• Not work during adverse weather conditions (high winds, icing, thunder and lightning, etc.) that make the work hazardous. Line-clearance tree trimming personnel may, however, begin work on storm restoration efforts in the aftermath of a storm (that is, in less severe weather conditions) if they have been trained in the special hazards involved with this type of work. These employees may perform work in any type of weather if the lines and circuits in the area have been deenergized per the requirements.

In addition to these specific operational requirements, line-clearance tree trimmers must also:

• Be trained and certified in, and observed (at least annually) to be complying with, safety–related work practices and procedures (including emergency procedures).

• Follow the medical and first aid provisions of .

• Be provided a job briefing before starting a job or if expected conditions change.

• Properly wear approved PPE, including fall protection equipment, when needed.

• Comply with material handling and mechanical equipment (for example, aerial lift) requirements.

While line-clearance tree trimmers can work alone, a second line-clearance tree trimmer must be within voice range of the first line-clearance tree trimmer if:

• The trimmer will approach within 10 feet of any conductor energized at more than 750 volts.

• Parts are energized at more than 750 volts and branches or limbs are being removed from within the minimum approach distance.

• Roping is necessary to remove branches or limbs from conductors or equipment.