If a crane is 20 feet away from a power line, what voltage level is it safe to operate?

When determining the safe operational voltage level of a crane near power lines, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and other safety guidelines provide criteria for minimum clearance distances based on the voltage of the power lines.

In general, for voltages up to 50 kV, typically a minimum clearance of 10 feet is recommended, while for voltages greater than that, the distance required increases. At 10 feet to 20 feet distances from high-voltage lines, the safe working limits rise significantly.

For a distance of 20 feet, the maximum allowable voltage is often around 250 kV, which aligns with safety practices ensuring that personnel and equipment are kept at a safe distance from energized conductors to prevent electrical hazards such as arcing, which can occur at high voltages. This clearance is critical to ensure the safety of crane operators and crew working in proximity to high voltage lines.

Thus, operating a crane 20 feet away from a power line is considered safe up to 250 kV, adhering to the established safety guidelines and minimizing the risk of electrical accidents.