1314 WALKER ROAD P. O. BOX 4017-C LAFAYETTE, LA 70502 (337) 291-5755
LAFAYETTE UTILITIES SYSTEM
April 30, 2002
Re: Louisiana Overhead Power Line Safety Act
Dear Licensed Contractor:
The purpose of this letter is to inform you of a new state law entitled the Overhead Power Line Safety Act that affects both the contractor and utility community. In an effort to promote worker and public safety when working near high voltage overhead electric lines, the Louisiana legislature has adopted new rules to be followed by those that work near overhead power lines (L.R.S. 45:141-146).
As you are already aware, Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations currently mandate that all operators of equipment maintain a minimum of 10 feet of radial clearance when working around or near overhead electric lines. In addition to the federal regulations already in effect, Louisiana law, beginning on January 1, 2002, will also prohibit unauthorized persons from working, including moving any equipment, within ten feet of any high voltage overhead electric utility line. If any unauthorized person intends to work within ten feet of any high voltage overhead electric utility line, the person responsible for the work to be done must notify the owner or operators of the high voltage overhead electric utility line not less than forty-eight hours prior to commencing work. Work shall be performed only after satisfactory mutual arrangements have been completed between the owner or operator of the high voltage overhead electric utility line and the person responsible for the work to be done.
The utilities and operators of high voltage electric lines of the state of Louisiana are committed to promoting worker and public safety. We want to work effectively with contractors who may work new our overhead lines. On the reverse side of this letter, we have provided a contact list for all electric utility representatives who own or operate overhead power lines in the state of Louisiana to be used in contacting the various utility entities as required by law.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation in applying this new law to your work plans.