1. Line Clearance Tree Trimming Operations
Quad State Instructors, Inc.

2. LINE CLEARANCE TREE TRIMMERS
Are your employees properly classified?
OSHA Recognizes 3 different qualification levels:
Unqualified (electrically)
269-qualified
Line-clearance tree trimmer
Correctly classifying workers allows a company to properly apply the appropriate rules and OSHA standards. Making sure employees use the correct tools and equipment is an important element in keeping workers safe. Making sure employees are properly trained to the extent of their classifications again insure companies are meeting the standards set forth in the OSHA regulations.

3. Unqualified Employees
Must maintain the minimum approach distances of at least 10’ from overhead power lines.
Work practices are covered by Subpart S – particularly (c)(3).
Section does NOT apply to tree trimming operations performed by unqualified employees.

4. Unqualified Employee

5. 269-Qualified Employees
Must use 269 specific skills and any other tree cutting procedures to safely trim trees
All of apply to work performed by these workers. *** except (r)(1) which specifically applies to line-clearance trimmers.
May work within minimum approach distance of energized parts.
The line-clearance tree trimming equipment requirements in (r)(2) through (8) 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.

6. Line-Clearance Tree Trimmers
Workers must be able to determine voltage of any line that may pose a hazard.
All body parts, ladders, platforms, or aerial devices must stay outside of the minimum approach distance.
Use only insulated tools to remove branches and limbs in contact with, or within minimum approach distance to energized parts.
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. Rubber gloves and a chainsaw are not permissible for a line-clearance tree trimmer when the branch or limb is within minimum approach. This type of PPE would be utilized by a 269 qualified employee – along with other preventative work practices/guards/shields.

7. Line-Clearance Tree Trimmers
All lines must be considered as operating at the voltage of the line with the highest voltage (r)(1)(iii) & (v).
Not allowed to work during adverse weather conditions (high wind, icing, lightning, etc.) that make the work hazardous.
May perform work during storm restoration if they have been trained in the special hazards present.

8. Line-Clearance Tree Trimmers
Be trained and certified in, and observed (at least annually) to be complying with safety-related work procedures.
Follow the medical and first aid provisions of (b).
Be provided a job briefing before the start of a job or if conditions change.

9. Line-Clearance Tree Trimmers
Properly wear PPE, including fall protection.
Comply with material handling and mechanical equipment requirements outlined in

10. Line-Clearance Tree Trimmers
Require a second qualified Line-Clearance Tree Trimmer to be within normal voice range if any of the following apply:
The trimmer is within 10’ of any conductor energized at more than 750 volts.
Parts are energized at more than 750 volts and branches and limbs are within the minimum approach distance.
Roping is required to remove branches from conductors or equipment.

11. Insulated Tools and Equipment
Tools constructed of a material that the employer can demonstrate has insulating qualities meeting paragraph (j)(1).
Fiberglass reinforced plastic – 100,000 volts per ft. for 5 minutes.
Wood – 75,000 volts per ft. for 3 minutes.

12. Insulated Tools and Equipment

13. Differences In Training & Competencies
269 Qualified
Line-Clearance
Ability to distinguish live parts
Ability to determine voltage
Minimum approach distances
Proper use of PPE and precautionary techniques
Recognition of electrical hazards and how to avoid them.
Ability to determine live parts
Ability to determine voltage
Minimum approach distances

14. Conclusion
It is critical to identify employees properly and make sure tools and training match the work being performed. If an employee is not properly qualified, then the tools and equipment need to be insulated and their employees need to stay out of the minimum approach distances at all times – this included their extended reach.