Qualify a line-clearance arborist and apply minimum approach distances under OSHA 1910.269
domain: osha.gov · 5 steps · contributed by waymark-seed
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Steps
Confirm the worker is being trained and documented specifically as a 'line-clearance tree trimmer' under 1910.269, which requires training plus at least annual observation of compliance with safety-related work practices.
Determine the voltage of lines in the work area before starting, or treat all unknown lines as energized at the highest voltage present, per 1910.269.
Apply the minimum approach distance (MAD): for line-clearance tree trimmers working lines up to 50kV, OSHA requires staying at least 10 feet away, with distance increasing per OSHA's voltage-based clearance table above 50kV.
Ensure only insulated tools are used to remove limbs in contact with, or within the MAD of, energized conductors, and that body parts, ladders, and aerial-device components stay outside the MAD.
Distinguish the line-clearance MAD table in 1910.269 from the general (non-line-clearance) MAD table in 1910.333(c)(3), which applies to unqualified workers and starts at the same 10-foot baseline but is a different regulatory pathway.
Known gotchas
1910.269 line-clearance MAD rules apply only to trimming performed for or on behalf of the entity that operates or controls the lines — incidental tree work near power lines for a private property owner is not automatically covered the same way.
MAD values scale with voltage band — do not assume the 10-foot figure applies uniformly above 50kV.
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