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Standards Updates
Standards Updates
IEEE 516-Guide for Maintenance Methods on Energized Power Lines
IEEE 516-Guide for Maintenance Methods on Energized Power Lines
IEEE 516-Guide for Maintenance Methods on Energized Power Lines was approved on May 13, 2009 and is now available for purchase. The new standard includes updates on Minimum Approach Distances (MAD) and other safe recommendations when working on energized lines. The updated standard introduces new MAD terms to include Minimum Air Insulation (MAID), Minimum Tool Insulation Distance (MTID), Minimum Approach Distance for Tools (MAD for Tools) and Minimum Helicopter Approach Distance (MHAD). MAD tables have been updated to include all of the listed MAD values measured line-to-ground and line-to-line. These updated MAD values are different than presently required by OSHA and NESC and if used as a standard will change many utilities' work processes.
New Proposed EPA NRR Change
New Proposed EPA NRR Change
EPA will soon announce its decision to try to make the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of hearing protection more in line with real-world usage. The current method for measuring NRR is performed in a laboratory setting and has not been consistent for measuring attenuation. Under the proposed changes the new rating will still be referred to as the NRR but instead of a single number it will be a two number range. The two numbers will represent an estimated protection by minimally-trained users versus well-trained users.
NESC 2012
NESC 2012
NESC-2012 change proposals have been published and are available for comment through May 1, 2010. The main change proposal includes a requirement for employers to determine potential electric arc exposures for employees who work on or near lines, parts or equipment 50- 1000 volts. NESC-2007 does not specifically require employers to perform an arc hazard analysis on low voltages systems so this will be a major change for 2012.