An emergency repair is required on a power line that is rated at 138 kV. Due to site constraints, a mobile crane needs to operate within 3 metres of the energized line. What specific steps or approvals are required before such an operation can proceed, according to provincial OHS regulations?

Question: An emergency repair is required on a power line that is rated at 138 kV. Due to site constraints, a mobile crane needs to operate within 3 metres of the energized line. What specific steps or approvals are required before such an operation can proceed, according to provincial OHS regulations?

Answer options:

• Only written approval from the site supervisor is needed. ✅ Permission from the power line owner and a specific written safe work procedure, along with a qualified spotter.
• Operating only during daylight hours.
• Reducing the crane's travel speed to 5 km/h.

Correct answer: Permission from the power line owner and a specific written safe work procedure, along with a qualified spotter.

Explanation: Operating a crane closer than the minimum safe approach distance to energized power lines (especially 138 kV) requires stringent controls. Provincial OHS regulations mandate written permission from the power line owner, a specific safe work procedure developed by a competent person, and often a dedicated, qualified spotter. Simple supervisor approval or time-of-day operation is insufficient for such high-risk scenarios.