When an overhead power line's arc-flash hazard assessment indicates a flash protection boundary of 3.5 metres (11.5 feet), what is the safest minimum distance an operator should maintain from the line, even if provincial regulations might allow a slightly closer safe approach distance for certain voltage ranges?

Question: When an overhead power line's arc-flash hazard assessment indicates a flash protection boundary of 3.5 metres (11.5 feet), what is the safest minimum distance an operator should maintain from the line, even if provincial regulations might allow a slightly closer safe approach distance for certain voltage ranges?

Answer options:

• 1.0 metre (3 feet)
• 3.0 metres (10 feet) ✅ 3.5 metres (11.5 feet)
• 5.0 metres (16 feet)

Correct answer: 3.5 metres (11.5 feet)

Explanation: The arc-flash protection boundary defines the distance at which an exposed person receives a second-degree burn. When this boundary is identified, it takes precedence as the minimum safe distance, even over general provincial safe approach distances, as it directly addresses the specific hazard assessed.