Ten-Foot Rule
Oregon has a law which was made to help protect those who should not work near power lines from becoming injured by doing so. Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 437-003-0047 is one of the most important pieces of legislation ever created to help protected unqualified workers from accidental contact with power lines.
Some interesting notes of the rule include:
- For lines energized at 600 volts and above, a minimum of 10-feet must be maintained by all employees and equipment at all times, including movement of lines or equipment due to machinery movement, wind or anything that can cause the distance from the lines to change.
- Any time a company intends to work in close proximity to power lines, they must first contact the utility company at least two working days in advance.
- Lines must be guarded by protective barriers, insulated or de-energized and grounded before non-qualified employees may enter the restricted space.
Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 437-003-0047 is available for download and requires Adobe Reader; click on the
"Get Adobe Reader" icon below to download the Adobe Reader, and then click on
"OAR 437-003-0047 Working Near Overhead High Voltage Lines and Equipment" to download.
OAR 437-003-0047 Working Near Overhead High Voltage Lines and Equipment
If you have a need to work in an area near power lines, please call our district offices to set up an appointment with our employees to assist you.
