Scaffolds must remain a minimum of how many feet from a 50-kV power line?

Scaffolds must remain a minimum of how many feet from a 50-kV power line?

• A. 5 Feet
• B. 10 Feet
• C. 15 Feet
• D. 20 Feet

Answer: (B)

Keeping a safe clearance from overhead energized lines is essential to prevent electric shock and arc hazards. For a line at fifty kilovolts, the minimum distance you must maintain for scaffold work is ten feet. This gap accounts for the risk that an arc could jump across a smaller air gap if the scaffold or its components shift, especially when long tools, materials, or weather conditions come into play. The higher the voltage, the greater the stopping distance needed, so this ten-foot clearance is a standard protection level specific to that voltage. Always verify line voltages and maintain the required distance before starting work near any power lines.

Keeping a safe clearance from overhead energized lines is essential to prevent electric shock and arc hazards. For a line at fifty kilovolts, the minimum distance you must maintain for scaffold work is ten feet. This gap accounts for the risk that an arc could jump across a smaller air gap if the scaffold or its components shift, especially when long tools, materials, or weather conditions come into play. The higher the voltage, the greater the stopping distance needed, so this ten-foot clearance is a standard protection level specific to that voltage. Always verify line voltages and maintain the required distance before starting work near any power lines.