- Standard Number:
OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.
April 15, 1997
Mr. Allen Salyer
Director of Safety
Dycom Industries, Inc.
4440 PGA Boulevard
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Dear Mr. Salyer:
This is in response to your letter of December 17, 1996 requesting an OSHA interpretation of Section 1926.955(a)(6)(i), in particular what constitutes "suitable protective equipment."
The protective equipment to which Section 1926.955(a)(6)(i) refers is electrical protective equipment, such as rubber insulating gloves, rubber insulating blankets, and live-line tools, that will insulate employees from mechanical equipment or machinery which, because of the proximity to energized lines, might contact the lines and become energized. The equipment being used must be capable of withstanding any voltage which can be impressed on the mechanical equipment involved. The requirements in Section 1926.955(a)(6)(i) must be met in addition to those in Section 1926.952(c)(2).
If you require any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us again by writing to:
- Directorate of Construction-OSHA
office of Construction Standards
and Compliance Assistance
Room N3621
200 Constitution Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20210
Sincerely,
Russell B. Swanson, Director
Directorate of Construction