5th step ssq Flashcards
- What are the minimum and maximum lengths for a mid-span tap?
4 feet minimum
7 feet maximum
Reference: DOH, Figure DC 590-1
- Explain APM Rule 147: Working Distance.
a. No employee shall approach or take any conductive object, except with approved devices, closer to unprotected energized parts than as prescribed by the APM.
0-300V- avoid contact
301-750- 1’1”
.750-5kV- 2’1”
5.1-15 kV- 2’2”
15.1-36 kV - 2’7”
b. Approach distances may be reduced, provided adequate approved protective devices are used. Such protection shall be applied and removed with approved insulating devices.
C.Contact must not be made with protective devices on conductors energized above 7,500 volts except with live line tools.
EXCEPTION: Employees certified in rubber gloving of conductors energized between 7,500 volts to 17 kV may contact protective devices up to 17 kV while wearing rubber gloves rated for the voltage and while utilizing “insulate and isolate” work practices.
Reference: APM Rule 147 minimum approach distance
- What are the clearance requirements for guy and span wires passing conductors supported on the same pole (incidental wiring ), given the following supply conductor voltages:
a. 0 - 750 V
b.4 kV
C.12 kV
D. 16kV
E. 33kV
a. 0 - 750 V
b.4 kV
C.12 kV
D. 16kV
E. 33kV
A.3 inches
B. 6 inches
C.9 inches
D. 9 inches
E. 12 inches
Reference: G.O. 95, Section III, Table 2, Case 19
- Explain APM Rule 104: Live Line Tools
- Live Line Tools
a. All work requiring the use of live line tools must be performed in accordance with applicable Accident Prevention Rules.
b. All live line tools must be approved by the OU before being put into use. No alterations must be made without approval.
c. Live line tools must be visually inspected for defects before use each day. Tools to be used must be wiped clean and if defects are indicated such tools must not be used.
d. Live line tools must be taken out of service biennially for an inspection following OU procedures
Reference: APM Rule 104 Live line tools
- Before using grounds, what does the inspection process entail?
Groud cable inspection:
Inspect the ground cable for cuts, nicks, and abrasions that may have penetrated through the jacket into the conductor and, if suspect, inspect the conductor for broken strands or visual signs of corrosion.
Inspect for kinks that could possibly damage the strands.
Ensure ground cable is not damaged, for example, (flattened).
Inspect for swollen cable jacket or soft spot for indication of internal corrosion or damage to strands.
ground clamp:
Ensure all components are in place and tight.
Loose threaded ferrule connections to the clamp assembly shall be tightened before use.
Ensure ferrules and clamps are not cracked or broken.
Visually inspect the crimped ferrule on the end of the conductor for broken strands or visual signs of corrosion.
Inspect for indications of corrosion at the threaded connection, hinge points or any other surfaces of the clamp.
Reference: Overhead Grounding Manual, 3.3.1.1
- Describe the visual inspection criteria for hot sticks.
Visual inspection shall include a check for obvious signs of deterioration that are likely to
negatively affect the insulating characteristics or safe operation, such as:
-Deep or significant:
-Scratches, Cracks, Chips, Gouges
-Holes
-Splintering
-Abrasions penetrating into the core
-Flaking
-Dulled surface/deteriorated finish (blooming)
-Other conditions affecting safe operation, which may include:
-Missing or loose end caps
Bent rivets or bolts
-Excessive wear on metal parts
-Bent or otherwise damaged parts
-Improperly functioning attachments, latches, levers, etc.
If a live line tool shows signs of damage and the user is not confident that it can be used safely, it must be removed from service and put aside for inspection and/or disposal.
Prior to sending live line tools in to be repaired, contact the appropriate Construction Methods group for approval.
Reference: Live Line Tool Care, Cleaning, and Inspection Procedure
- Prior to inspecting hot sticks, they should be cleaned. Describe the procedure for the daily cleaning of hot sticks.
Cleaning prior to inspection shall include the following:
Fan off excessive dust build-up before wiping to prevent scratching during
cleaning
Wipe with clean absorbent cloth
Clean with spiral motion from top to bottom of pole (i.e. rotate pole while
cleaning to avoid longitudinal scratches). IF dry wiping does not remove
contaminated, use wet cleaning method (see pg. 2).
Coat with silicone using clean silicone cloth or wipe. Wipe in a circular motion
(not up and down).
Reference: Live Line Tool Care, Cleaning, and Inspection Procedure
- What are the approved methods for storing hot sticks on a pole?
Live line tools shall not be hung on a conductor. An approved tool hanger or bag shall be used.
Reference: APM Rule 222.f
- What is the minimum conductor size that mid-span taps can be installed?
Minimum line conductor size 1/0 ACSR or 2 Strand copper.
Reference: DOH, Figure DC 590-1
- What is the maximum load that may be dropped using the standard Loadbuster®?
600 A non-capacitive current
Reference: DOM, TE-1 4.1.1
- What is the largest capacitor bank that may be de-energized with the standard Loadbuster®?
This tool can be used to de-energize overhead capacitor banks up to a maximum size of 1800 kVAR in the 4 kV, 12 kV, and 16 kV systems
Reference: DOM, TE-1 4.1.1
- After how many operations must a Loadbuster® be replaced?
New and modified loadbuster tools are equipped with operation counters, Figure 1–10, and shall not remain in service for more than thirty-six (36) consecutive months, or used for more than 1,500 operations (whichever occurs first) between service intervals.or 3 years
Reference: DOM, TE-1 2.3
- How many different sizes of Loadbusters® are used by Edison, and what are their applications?
There are two sizes of Loadbuster®tools:
The standard Loadbuster® tool is used on open-style overhead fuses, cutouts and disconnects with load-break hooks up to 16 kV.
The 33 kV Loadbuster® tool is only approved for use on S&C 33 kV fuse holders and shall not be used on capacitor banks.
Reference: DOM TE-1 4.1.1 and 2
- Describe what a tap line clearance is, when it would be required, and how it is taken.
On distribution tap lines with a single source of supply, the person in charge of the distribution crew or Troubleman must issue a formal clearance to himself or another qualified person of the crew prior to working on an electric line or some piece of operating equipment which is inherently too hazardous to work on while in service. The following must be provided to the Switching Center and Distribution Operations Center prior to de-energizing any distribution tap line:
1. Name, radio call number or cell telephone number
2. Circuit name and voltage
3. Identify work to be performed and location
4. Identify method to de-energize tap line
5. Estimated timeframe if de-energizing tap line
Reference: APM Rule 105.c
- How much load, if any, may be dropped using a KPF switch?
Non load-break type pole-top switches shall not be used for interrupting load.
100- no whiskers
150- 12’ arm no overbuild
350- whiskers
Reference: DOM, SW-2 2.0
- What are the application ratings for overhead load-break switches and load-break switches automated?
- Use APM Rule 109 to answer the following:
A. When is approved head protection required?
B. When are garments with full-length sleeves required?
A
1. Where there is a risk of receiving head injuries from hazards such as flying or falling
objects, electric shock and burns, or other overhead hazards.
2. On poles, structures, or when in an aerial device (for example, Bucket truck, pin on
platform, or crane basket).
3. In switch yards.
4. High voltage rubber gloving or hot sticking work, listed in the Arc Flash Manual, can be
done with an approved arc rated balaclava and goggle kit.
NOTE: Head protection must not have unapproved accessories, flamable or conductive materials attached
B
1. Wood poles or crossarms.
2. Hot or injurious liquids or materials.
3. Open flames or sparks, additionally the garment must be flame resistant.
4. Within the arc flash boundary or exposed energized lines or equipment arc resistant (AR) shirts tucked in, with full length sleeves rolled down and buttoned, and AR pants must be worn.
Reference: APM Rule 109.b and .c
- What is the correct order to install and remove protective cover?
D. In applying protective equipment, an employee must always protect the nearest and lowest wires first, insuring personal protection at all times. In removing protective equipment, the reverse order must be maintained. Protective equipment must be applied from a position underneath the conductor when possible.
Reference: APM Rule 207.d
- Describe the rubber covering inspections required by the APM.
E. Rubber blankets and sleeves must be given a visual roll test to inspect for defects at least once each day while in use, preferably at the beginning of the work period and at any other time when their condition is in doubt.
Reference: APM Rule 131.e
- Describe the storage requirements for rubber protective equipment, per the APM.
D. When not in use, rubber protective equipment must be protected from mechanical and chemical damage, and must always be stored in the containers provided and nothing else placed therein.
Reference: APM Rule 131.d
- At a minimum, what information should be provided to the 911 operator?
- Name, nature of emergency.
- Address, nearest cross street, city.
- Phone number you are calling from.
- Stay on the line until information is confirmed.
Reference: APM Policy P-14-A-2
- What voltages may be worked on while wearing rubber gloves?
A. Approved rubber gloves must be worn at all times when working on exposed energized conductors rated from 120 Volts to 17 kV (a/c nominal) unless performing work with live line or other approved insulated tools
2. When working with rubber gloves on overhead primary conductors or equipment energized in excess of 7,500 Volts, insulate/isolate practices must be used in accordance with approved Organizational Unit or OU procedures.
Reference: APM Rule 108
- What is the proof test AC voltage for class 2 rubber gloves?
20,000 volts
Reference: (2nd step book reference, annual compliance, rubber glove refresher
- What are the voltage ratings for each class of rubber gloves used by SCE?
Class 0: 0-1000 V
Class 1: 10.000 V
Class 2: 20,000 V
Reference: Rubber Glove Manual, General Information 2.0 Rubber Glove Classes
- What is the maximum voltage that can be worked upon, with rubber gloves, from the pole?
7,500 V
Reference: Rubber Glove Manual, 3.3.1
- Calculate the full load amps for an 1800 kVAR capacitor
multiply KVAR by 1000 the divide VAR by voltage by 1.73
Reference: 4’” Step Capacitor Banks and PF Training Manual
- Explain basic operation of a load buster.
4.3 Operation of Loadbuster Tool
STEP 1. Prior to using the loadbuster tool, fully depress the load-break tube, then pull back lightly. An increasing spring tension should be felt. The tool is now “fully cocked” and ready for operation.
STEP 2. The loadbuster tool and open-style fuseholder and disconnects are designed to be operated (by pulling in a downward attitude) from the pole position and well below the fuseholder level. When working from a lineman’s platform ladder, or aerial bucket, the operator should be positioned approximately in the same position as if on the pole. This positioning will allow the fuseholder to unlatch and open while providing for a smooth, steady extension of the tool until the load is dropped.
STEP 3. Reach across in front of the fuse or disconnect with the loadbuster, hooking the anchor (located at top of tool) over the attachment hook (top of fuseholder or disconnect) on the far side of the fuse or disconnect (see Figure 1–6).
STEP 4. Swing the loadbuster toward the fuse or disconnect, passing the pull-ring latch (located on tool frame), through the pull-ring on the fuse or disconnect blade. The pull-ring latch will deflect, and upon complete entry of the pull-ring, will spring back and lock in place. The loadbuster is now connected across the upper contact of the fuseholder or disconnect and the upper part of the fuse or disconnect blade (see Figure 1–6).
STEP 5. To open the circuit, operate the loadbuster with a firm, steady pull until it is extended to its maximum length. AVOID JERKING OR HESITATION. The circuit is now interrupted (see Figure 1–7).
STEP 6. With the loadbuster fully extended, and the fuse or blade open, the loadbuster can be removed by simply rolling the loadbuster away from (on 4 kV disconnects, toward) the operator allowing the latch to disengage from the pull-ring and the fuse or blade to fall fully open (see Figure 1–8).
STEP 7. The loadbuster anchor-ring can now be lifted from the fuse or disconnect attachment hook without danger of a restrike (see Figure 1–9
STEP 8. Before closing in overhead SMU-20 fuses following a Loadbuster operation, test the latch function of the SMU-20 fuse holder with a hotstick. With the fuses in the down position, use a hotstick to first push the top latch of the fuse holder to the fully-up position, then release pressure on the top latch. The top latch should freely and immediately drop to the down position. If the top latch of the fuse holder is found to move up and down freely, then the fuse may be closed in (see Figure 1–3). Replace any fuse holder found with a top latch that does not move up and down freely, with a new SMD-20 fuse holder
Reference: DOM, TE-1 4.3
- Can load-pickup and load-break operations using Break-Safe Tool be done with rubber gloves? Explain?
No, load-pickup and load-break operations are to be accomplished using hot sticks only.
Break safe 300 A load pick up, break, and continuous.
Reference: DOM, TE-10 2.0
- Can there be too many capacitor banks on a circuit?
Yes, the desired VAR-Watt ratio is 0.5 to 0.65. Too many capacitors could move a circuit from this ratio.
Reference: 4’” Step Capacitor Banks and PF Training Manual
- What is the hazard when a capacitor bank has one or two blown fuses?
Higher rack-to-ground potential would develop when only one or two phases are energized due to fuse operation or switch failure. With only one phase energized, the capacitor neutral-to-ground voltage can approach full phase-to-ground potential (9.5 kV in a 16 kV system). With two phases energized, the capacitor neutral-to-ground voltage can approach approximately half of phase-to-ground potential (4.75 kV in a 16 kV
system.
Reference: 4’ Step Capacitor Banks and PF Training Manual
- Explain the use of an insulated link stick with hot hoists.
When using hot hoist, an approved insulted link stick shall be installed between the hoists and any other surface with a different potential. Fiber strap hoists must be kept clean, dry, and in good repair.
Use appropriate insulating hot sticks in series with the web strap hoist and when necessary in series with the body to achieve proper working distance per OSHA Regulation Subpart V, 1926.950 or company work practices.
Reference: GM, pg. 19 Rigging manual 2.5
- What is the approach distance for the following? May approach distances be reduced? Explain.
a) 4 kV
b) 12 kV
c) 16 kV
d) 33 kV
a) 2 feet 1 inch
b) 2 feet 2 inch
c) 2 feet 7 inches
d) 2 feet 7 inches
Yes, Approach distances may be reduced provided adequate approved protective devices are used. Such protection shall be applied and removed with approved insulating devices.
Reference: APM Rule 147.a, b
- Which live line tool is used to control:
a) Stranded conductor?
b) Solid conductors?
a) Stranded conductor?
b) Solid conductors?
a) Chance clamp / stranded wire holder
b) Duck bill / flat jaw on clamp
5th step hotsticking
- What must be done prior to opening a primary neutral on four-wire high voltage circuits?
The neutral conductor in the overhead or underground shall not be opened except on authority from the Grid Ops Manager or equivalent authority.
Reference: APM Rule 208.b
- Do GADs have to be in the same structure where the work is being performed? Explain.
NO, if its is in a closed or locked structure (Vault, manhole, PME) then it is ok to not be in the structure being worked in
Grounds shall be installed so that at least one set is visible to one member of the crew, unless one of the grounding devices is accessible only to authorized persons.
Reference: APM Rule 141.e
- If a cable is isolated from all sources, must grounds still be applied? Explain.
Cable isolation method
This method is applicable when all sources (breakers, fuse, switch or taps) are isolated and the cables/potheads are floated or underground components are installed on insulated standoffs.
All primary pre-molded, rubber-separable dead-break connectors shall be operated with live-line tools until proven de-energized.
Exception: The 600 A T-Bodies shall not be landed or removed with live line tools.
The approved safe work method requires the switch position (or apparatus) to be grounded prior
to installing/removing of 600 A basic elbow components (T-Bodies).
This method also applies for changing cables as a result of a dig-in.
This method will not require any working grounds or EPZ. However, the cable or equipment to
be worked on shall be proven de-energized at the work location
Reference: UGGM, 3.6.D.3
- Is a conductor de-energized if it is not grounded? Explain.
b. Cable and equipment must be considered energized and worked with adequate protective devices until it has been tested de-energized with an approved device for indication of voltage and grounded with approved ground devices.
Reference: APM Rule 306.b
- Are ratchet hot cutters an approved device for spiking (proving) cable de-energized?
No, they are no longer approved
Reference: UGGM, 5.1
- What must be done before remote cutting de-energized cable?
Before spiking any cable, verify that the concentrics are grounded, or shunt or ground the cable concentric/ sheath of that cable on both sides at the work location.
Reference: UGGM, 3.5.2
- When should protective covering be used when working hot sticks?
D. Employees working with live line tools must use adequate protective equipment on primary conductors, low-voltage conductors, telephone circuits, and other wires which are within reaching distance..
Reference: APM Rule 222.d