April 11, 2014
Contact: Office of Communications
Phone: 202-693-1999

OSHA announces that the final rule revising standards
for electric power generation, transmission and distribution has been
published in the Federal Register

WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration today announced that the final rule to improve workplace safety and health for workers performing electric power generation, transmission and distribution work has been published in the Federal Register.

The final rule revises OSHA's 40-year-old construction standard for electric power line work to make it more consistent with the corresponding general industry standard and also makes some revisions to the construction and general industry requirements. In addition, the standards adopt revised approach-distance requirements and add new requirements to protect workers from electric arcs. General industry and construction standards for electrical protective equipment are also revised under the final rule.

The rule becomes effective July 10, 2014. OSHA adopted delayed compliance deadlines for certain requirements. Additional information on the final rule is available at http://www.osha.gov/dsg/power_generation/.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.

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