Washington Administrative Code › Title 296 - Labor and Industries, Department of › Chapter 296-32 - Safety standards for telecommunications › Section 296-32-210 - Definitions

Current through Register Vol. 24-14, July 15, 2024
The terms used in these standards will be interpreted in the
				most commonly accepted sense consistent with the communications industry. The
				words "shall" and "must," are used to indicate the provisions which are
				mandatory.
Acceptable conditions for access.
The conditions
				that must exist before the employer authorizes and grants permission for
				construction, alteration, repair or maintenance work. These conditions include
				the following:
(a) Work under the control of a work safety program meeting the
				requirements of the rules in this chapter;
(b) Notwithstanding the prohibitions outlined in this rule, if
				emergency maintenance work must be performed where there is an accumulation of
				snow, ice or other slippery material, the employer must implement safe work
				practices (equipment, practices and procedures) that address the hazards known
				to be associated with work to minimize the associated risk to employees while
				working.
Accessible radiation.
Laser radiation to which
				human access is possible.
Adverse weather.
Does not abdicate the
				responsibility of the employer to provide for a safe work environment. Proper
				clothing and safety equipment must be suitable for the work intended. When
				adverse weather (such as high winds, heat, cold, lightning, rain, snow or
				sleet) creates a hazardous condition, operations must be suspended until the
				hazardous condition no longer exists.
Aerial lifts.
Includes, but are not limited to,
				the following types of vehicle-mounted aerial devices used to elevate personnel
				to job sites above ground:
(a) Extensible boom platforms;
(b) Aerial ladders;
(c) Articulating boom platforms;
(d) Vertical towers;
(e) A combination of any of the above defined in ANSI
				A92.2-2015. These devices are made of metal, wood, fiberglass, reinforced
				plastic (FRP), or other material; are powered or manually operated and are
				deemed to be aerial lifts whether or not they are capable of rotating above a
				substantially vertical axis.
Aerial splicing platform.
This usually or commonly
				consists of a platform, approximately 3 feet x 4 feet, used to perform aerial
				cable work. It is furnished with fiber or synthetic ropes for supporting the
				platform from aerial strand, detachable guy ropes for anchoring it, and a
				device for raising and lowering it with a handline.
Aerial tent.
A small tent usually constructed of
				vinyl coated canvas which is usually supported by light metal or plastic
				tubing. It is designed to protect employees in inclement weather while working
				on ladders, aerial splicing platforms, or aerial devices.
Anchorage.
A secure connecting point or a
				terminating component of a fall protection system or rescue system capable of
				safely supporting the impact forces applied by a fall protection system or
				anchorage subsystem.
Anti-two block device.
A positive acting device
				that prevents contact between the load block or overhaul ball and the top block
				(two-blocking) or a system that deactivates the hoisting action before damage
				occurs in the event of a two-block situation.
Articulating boom lift/crane.
A crane or boom lift
				whose boom consists of a series of folding, pin connected structural numbers,
				typically manipulated to extend or retract by power from hydraulic
				cylinders.
Assisted rescue.
A rescue requiring the assistance
				of others.
Automatic descent control device.
A load lowering
				device or mechanism that automatically controls pay-out speed of line or
				descent speed under load once it has been engaged.
Barricade.
A physical obstruction such as tapes,
				cones, or "A" frame type wood and/or metal structure intended to warn and limit
				access to a work area.
Barrier.
A physical obstruction which is intended
				to prevent contact with energized lines or equipment, or to prevent
				unauthorized access to a work area.
Boatswain chair.
A single-point adjustable
				suspension scaffold consisting of a seat or sling (which may be incorporated
				into a full body harness) designed to support one employee in a sitting
				position.
Bond.
An electrical connection from one conductive
				element to another for the purpose of minimizing potential differences or
				providing suitable conductivity for fault current or for mitigation of leakage
				current and electrolytic action.
Brakes.
A mechanical or hydraulic system that can
				decelerate or stop a load.
Cable.
An insulated or uninsulated electrical
				conductor, often in strands or any combination of electrical conductors that
				may be insulated from one another.
Cable sheath.
A protective covering applied to
				cables.
Note:
A cable sheath may consist of multiple
				layers of which one or more is conductive.
Cage.
A barrier, which may be referred to as a
				cage guard or basket guard, that is an enclosure mounted on the side rails of
				the fixed ladder or fastened to the structure to enclose the climbing space of
				the ladder.
Capstans.
A spool-shaped mechanical device mounted
				on the end of a shaft around which a rope is wrapped; sometimes called a
				cathead when used in a horizontal position; can be pole mounted, tower mounted,
				or truck mounted.
Carabiner.
A connector generally comprised of a
				trapezoidal or oval shaped body with a closed gate or similar arrangement that
				may be opened to attach another object and, when released, automatically closes
				to retain the object.
Carrier.
The track of a ladder safety device
				consisting of a flexible cable or rigid rail.
Circuit.
A conductor or system of conductors
				through which an electric current is intended to flow; or an electrical device
				that provides a path for an electrical current to flow.
Clearance.
The distance from a specified reference
				point or protection by the use of protective devices to prevent accidental
				contact by persons or objects on approach to a point of danger.
Climber attachment anchorage.
An anchorage point
				for attaching a lanyard or similar fall protection device. See also
				"anchorage."
Climbing facilities.
A series of attachments
				installed on a support structure, or antenna, on which a climber may step while
				ascending or descending, and which may incorporate or employ:
(a) Steps, rungs, cleats and/or structural members which form
				an integral part of the structure;
(b) Rungs, cleats or step bolts which are attached to the
				structure;
(c) Fixed ladders, safety devices, platforms and cages used for
				climbing or working on communication structures; or
(d) Climber attachment anchorages.
Climbing space.
The space reserved on poles or
				structures that permits ready access for workers to gain access to equipment
				and conductors located on poles or structures.
Communication lines.
The conductors and their
				supporting or containing structures for telephone, telegraph, railroad signal,
				data, clock, fire, police-alarm, community television, fiber optic, and other
				systems which are used for public or private signal or communication services,
				and which operate at potentials not exceeding 400 volts to ground or 750 volts
				between any two points of the circuit, and the transmitted power of which does
				not exceed 150 watts. When communications lines operate at less than 150 volts
				to ground, no limit is placed on the capacity of the system. Specifically
				designed communications cables may include communication circuits not complying
				with the preceding limitations, where such circuits are also used incidentally
				to supply power to communication equipment.
Communication plant.
The lines and conductors and
				their associated equipment required to provide public or private signals for
				communicative service.
Communication tower.
Any structure that is used
				primarily as an antenna or to provide attachment points for one or more
				antennas or signaling devices. Where the communication tower is affixed to
				another structure, such as an electrical transmission tower, church steeple,
				building rooftop, or water tower, the applicable part of any controlling
				regulation for protection of employees must apply up to the point of access to
				the communication tower.
Competent climber.
An individual with the physical
				capabilities to climb; has actual tower climbing experience; is trained in fall
				protection regulations including the equipment that applies to tower work; is
				capable of identifying existing and potential fall hazards; and has the
				employer's authority to take prompt corrective action to eliminate those
				hazards.
Competent person.
A person who has been trained
				pertaining to their job assignment and can identify existing and predictable
				hazards in their surroundings that are either unsanitary, hazardous, or
				dangerous to employees and has the authority by the nature of their position to
				take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them. The person must also be
				knowledgeable in the requirements of this chapter to be competent.
Competent rescuer.
An individual designated by the
				employer who by training, knowledge and experience is capable of the
				implementation, supervision and monitoring of a rescue at height in the event
				of an emergency. This person must have the employer's authority to write the
				individual site rescue plan, and may be designated to manage the employer's
				fall protection rescue program.
Competent rigger.
A person knowledgeable and
				experienced with the procedures and equipment common to the communication
				structures industry and trained to identify hazards with authorization to take
				prompt corrective measures.
Conductor.
A material, usually in the form of a
				wire, cable, or bus bar, suitable for carrying an electric current.
Construction work.
Includes all or any part of
				excavation, construction, erection, alteration, repair, demolition, and
				dismantling, of buildings and other structures and all operations in connection
				therewith; the excavation, construction, alteration and repair of sewers,
				trenches, caissons, conduits, pipe lines, roads and all operations pertaining
				thereto; the moving of buildings and other structures, and to the construction,
				alteration, repair, or removal of wharfs, docks, bridges, culverts, trestles,
				piers, abutments or any other construction, alteration, repair or removal work
				related thereto.
Construction work.
For purposes of Part C of this
				chapter also means field activities related to the installation, alteration,
				maintenance or demolition/decommission of antenna supporting structures and
				antennas.
Contract employer.
An employer, other than a host
				employer, that performs work covered by this chapter under contract.
Crew.
A group of two or more employees of one
				employer sent to a worksite to work on the same project.
Crew chief/supervisor/foreman.
One who is
				authorized and designated as competent and qualified by the employer.
Crewleader or person-in-charge
.
Person directly in charge of employees doing the work regardless of
				title.
Crown block (top block).
The upper sheave assembly
				attached to a structure used to change the direction of a load or jump line
				coming from a hoist.
Deceleration distance.
The vertical distance
				between the user's fall arrest attachment at the onset of fall arrest forces
				during a fall, and after the fall arrest attachment comes to a complete
				stop.
Direct communications.
The effective and reliable
				two-way communication, being able to send and receive communications, between
				crew members or crews using normal voice communication, visual, radio, or
				cellular means.
Effectively grounded.
Intentionally connecting
				equipment to earth through a ground connection or connections of sufficiently
				low impedance and having sufficient current-carrying capacity to prevent the
				transmission of fault current or voltages which may result in undue hazard to
				employees or connected equipment.
Elevated (high angle) rescue.
The process by which
				emergency methods and equipment are utilized in order to gain access to and
				egress from the location of an injured employee(s) on a tower structure, or
				other elevated structures and lower both the injured employee(s) and the
				rescuer(s) to the ground safely.
Emergency.
An unforeseen occurrence endangering
				life, limb, or property which requires immediate action.
Emergency washing facilities.
Typically consist of
				emergency showers, eyewashes, eye/face washes, hand-held drench hoses, or other
				similar units.
Energized (alive or live).
Electrically connected
				to a source of potential difference or electrically charged so as to have a
				potential different from that of the earth or different from that of adjacent
				conductors or equipment.
Engineer of record (EOR).
A registered
				professional engineer with expertise in the discipline applicable to the scope
				of work and responsible for the structural adequacy of the design of the
				structure in the completed project.
Engineered hoist system.
A hoist system that is
				the complete system for hoisting, including: The frame, mounts and/or
				anchorages, prime mover (winch assembly), motors, drums, truck chassis (if used
				as the base for the hoist), wheel chocks, wire rope, hour meter, foot blocks,
				gin pole (if used), and rooster head or cat head, as applicable.
Equipment.
A general term which includes
				materials, fittings, devices, appliances, fixtures, apparatus, and similar
				items used as part of, or in connection with, a supply or communications
				installation; to include all machinery used in the performance of constructing
				and maintaining communication systems.
Exit.
Provides a way of travel out of the
				workplace.
Exit route.
A continuous and unobstructed path of
				exit or travel from any point within a communications workplace, structure, or
				site to provide a safe means of withdrawal.
Exposed live parts.
Electrical parts that are not
				suitably covered, guarded, isolated, or insulated and are capable of being
				accidentally accessed, touched or approached closer than a safe
				distance.
Exposed wiring methods.
Those methods working with
				electrical wires that are attached to surfaces or behind panels designed to
				allow access to the wires.
Fall arrest.
The action or event of stopping a
				free fall or the instant where the downward free fall has been stopped.
Fall arrest system.
The collection of equipment
				components that are configured to arrest a free fall.
Fall protection equipment.
The personal equipment
				that employees utilize in conjunction with fall protection systems, including
				connectors, body belts or body harnesses, lanyards, ropes, deceleration
				devices, and anchorage points to ensure 100 percent fall protection for the
				employees.
Fall protection work plan.
A written planning
				document in which the employer identifies all areas on the job site where fall
				hazards may exist. Detailed requirements relating to a fall protection work
				plan are covered in WAC
				296-32-22555
				and
				296-32-24012 of
				this chapter.
Fall restraint.
A system in which all necessary
				components function together to restrain or prevent an employee from falling to
				a lower level. Types of fall restraint systems include guardrail systems and
				personal fall restraint system(s) that prevents the user from falling any
				distance. The system is comprised of either a lineman's belt or full body
				harness, along with an anchorage, connectors and other necessary equipment. The
				other components typically include a lanyard, and may also include a lifeline
				and other devices.
Fiber-optic cable - Communication.
A fiberoptic
				cable meeting the requirements for a communication line and located in the
				communication space of overhead or underground facilities.
Fiber-optic cable - Supply.
A fiber-optic cable
				located in the supply space of overhead or underground facilities.
Field work.
The construction, installation,
				operation, maintenance, rearrangement, and removal of conductors, antenna
				systems, and other equipment used for signal or communication service, and of
				their supporting or containing structures for landline or wireless
				communications.
First aid.
The extent of treatment you would
				expect from a person trained in basic first aid, using supplies from a
				first-aid kit. Tests, such as X-rays, must not be confused with
				treatment.
Flemish eyes (Molly Hogan).
An eye splice made by
				using stranded cable and weaving them together to make an eye.
Floor hole.
An opening measuring less than twelve
				inches but more than one inch in its least dimension in any floor, roof,
				platform, or surface through which materials but not persons may fall, such as
				a belt hole, pipe opening, or slot opening.
Floor opening.
An opening measuring twelve inches
				or more in its least dimension in any floor, roof, platform, or surface through
				which persons may fall.
Foot block (heel or base block).
A block stationed
				or positioned at the base of a structure or pole that allows a line, rope or
				wire rope to change direction 90 degrees to go up the structure.
Full body harness.
A body support that is designed
				to contain the torso in such a manner that fall arrest forces are distributed
				over at least the upper thighs, pelvis, chest, and shoulders, with provisions
				for attaching a lanyard, lifeline, or deceleration devices. These
				specifications must meet the requirements specified in ANSI Z359.1-2007.
Gin pole.
A device unique to the
				telecommunications industry and is used to raise successive sections of tower
				steel, antennas, personnel or equipment into position. This temporary device
				allows headroom above the highest fixed point of the tower or structure.
Gross load.
The total load to be lifted. This
				includes the weight of the lifted object, headache ball, the load line, tag
				line, and any other attachments.
Ground.
A conductive body, usually earth, to which
				an electric potential is referenced; the connecting or establishment of a
				connection, whether by intention or by accident; a conducting connection,
				between an electric circuit and equipment and earth or to some other conducting
				body that serves in place of the earth.
Grounded.
To be positively connected to or in
				contact with earth or connected to an extended conduction body that serves
				instead of earth. A conducting object such as, but not limited to, a wire that
				is connected to such a position as zero potential. A connection has been made
				between an electrical circuit or equipment and the earth or another conducting
				body besides the earth, used as an arbitrary zero of potential.
Grounding (for employee protection)
.
The act of placing shorts and grounds on conductors and equipment for
				the purpose of protecting employees from dangerous voltages while working on
				such lines or equipment.
Ground tent.
A small tent usually constructed of
				vinyl coated canvas supported by a metal or plastic frame. Its purpose is to
				protect employees and the equipment from inclement weather while working at
				buried cable pedestal sites or similar locations.
Grounded conductor.
A system or circuit conductor
				which is intentionally grounded.
Grounded systems.
A system of conductors/equipment
				in which at least one conductor or point is intentionally grounded, either
				solidly or through a current-limiting device (not a current-interrupting
				device).
Grounding electrode conductor (grounding conductor)
				.
A conductor used to connect equipment or the grounded components of a
				wiring system to a grounding electrode.
Guard or guarded.
Covered, shielded, fenced,
				enclosed, or otherwise protected by means of suitable covers, casings,
				barriers, rails, screens, mats, platforms, or warning signs or devices to
				remove the possibility of dangerous contact to lines, equipment or devices,
				limiting or preventing approach by other persons or objects to a point of
				danger.
Guardrails.
A type of fall restraint system that
				is a horizontal barrier consisting of a top rail and mid rail, and toe board
				when used as falling object protection for persons who may work or pass below,
				that is erected along all open sides or edges of a walking/working surface, a
				floor opening, a floor hole, wall opening, ramp, platform, or runway.
Handrail.
A single bar or pipe supported on
				brackets from a wall or partition to provide a continuous handhold for persons
				using a stair.
Hazard.
Any condition, potential or inherent,
				which can cause injury, death, or occupational disease.
High wind.
A wind condition that is determined to
				be at such velocity as to create a hazard to the employees performing aerial
				tasks as an employee would be exposed to being blown from elevated locations,
				lose footing and control; that wind speed which has been determined to be
				unsafe by the manufacturer of the particular equipment being used (cranes,
				lifts, booms, etc.) and/or equipment being installed. Winds exceeding 25-30
				miles per hour (48.3 kilometers per hour) if material handling is involved,
				winds exceeding 40 miles per hour (64.4 kilometers per hour) are normally
				considered as meeting this criteria.
Hoist mechanism or hoist.
The complete unit
				including frame, prime mover (winch assembly), pumps, motors, drums, and any
				associated equipment that is necessary to make the complete unit work and is
				used to lift a load.
Hoisting.
The act of lifting and/or lowering loads
				or personnel.
Horizontal lifeline.
A rail, rope, wire, or
				synthetic cable that is installed in a horizontal plane between two anchorages
				and used for attachment of an employee's lanyard or lifeline device while
				moving horizontally.
Host employer.
An employer who operates or
				maintains telecommunications facilities covered by this chapter and who
				authorizes a contract employer to perform work on that installation.
Note to the definition of "host employer":
The Division of Safety and Health (DOSH) will treat the
				telecommunication company or the owner of the installation as the host employer
				if it operates or controls operating procedures for the installation. If the
				telecommunication company or installation owner neither operates nor controls
				operating procedures for the installation, DOSH will treat the employer that
				the telecommunication owner has contracted with to operate or control the
				operating procedures for the installation as the host employer. In no case will
				there be more than one host employer.
Individual-rung/step ladder.
A fixed ladder
				consisting of individual steps, rungs or climbing pegs mounted directly to the
				surface, side or wall of the pole, structure, building, equipment, or
				vault.
Insulated.
Separated from other conducting
				surfaces by a dielectric substance for the intended applied voltage or may be
				subject to (including air space) offering a high resistance to the passage of
				current.
Note:
When any object is said to be insulated, it
				is understood to be insulated in suitable manner for the conditions to which it
				is subjected. Otherwise, it is, within the purpose of these standards,
				uninsulated. Insulating coverings of conductors is one means of making the
				conductor insulated.
Insulation (as applied to cable)
.
That which is relied upon to insulate the conductor from other conductors or
				conducting parts or from ground.
Job hazard assessment.
A process used to identify
				hazards and the methods to eliminate or control those hazards.
Joint use.
The sharing of a common facility, such
				as a manhole, trench or pole, by two or more entities or utilities such as, but
				not limited to, power, alarm systems, signal lighting and
				telecommunications.
Ladder.
A device incorporating or employing steps,
				rungs, or cleats.
Ladder platform.
A device designed to facilitate
				working aloft from an extension ladder. A typical device consists of a platform
				(approximately 9" x 18") hinged to a welded pipe frame. The rear edge of the
				platform and the bottom crossmember of the frame are equipped with latches to
				lock the platform to ladder rungs.
Ladder safety device.
Any device, other than a
				cage or well, designed to arrest the fall of a person using a fixed
				ladder.
Ladder safety system.
A system designed to
				eliminate or reduce the possibility of falling from a ladder. A ladder safety
				system usually consists of a carrier, safety sleeve, lanyard, connectors, and
				body harness. Cages and wells are not ladder safety systems.
Ladder seat.
A removable seat used to facilitate
				work at an elevated position on rolling ladders in telecommunication
				centers.
Landing.
An area such as the ground, roof, or
				platform that provides access/egress for a fixed ladder.
Laser safety officer.
One who has authority and
				responsibility to monitor and enforce the control of laser hazards and effect
				the knowledgeable evaluation and control of lasers.
Length of climb.
The total vertical distance a
				person could climb in traveling between the extreme points of access/egress for
				a fixed ladder, whether the ladder is of an unbroken length or consists of
				multiple sections. This total vertical distance is determined by including all
				spaces between all ladder steps or rungs and all other vertical intervening
				spaces between the extreme points of access/egress.
Line clearance tree trimming.
The pruning,
				trimming, repairing, maintaining, removing or clearing of trees or the cutting
				of brush that is within 10 feet (305 cm) of electric supply lines or
				equipment.
Lineman's body belt.
A body support comprised of a
				strap, at least four inches in width, designed to be compatible with an
				approved fall restraint system.
Line patrol.
Looking at aerial plants after storm
				damage for damaged lines.
Line truck.
A truck used to transport employees,
				tools, and material, and to serve as a traveling workshop for telecommunication
				installation and maintenance work. It is sometimes equipped with a boom and
				auxiliary equipment for setting poles, digging holes, and elevating material or
				employees.
Listed.
Equipment that is listed in a publication
				by a nationally recognized laboratory (such as, but not limited to, UL
				(Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.)) that inspects and approves that type of
				equipment. Listed equipment must also state that the equipment meets nationally
				recognized standards or has been tested and found safe to use in a specific
				manner.
Load chart.
A chart used that is affixed to and
				specific to the equipment to determine the lifting capacities under specified
				parameters and an understanding of the working parameters within which the
				capacities are to be used.
Load line.
A synthetic or wire rope of sufficient
				size, durability and strength to raise and lower the intended gross load
				safely.
Locking snap hook.
A connecting snap hook that
				requires two separate forces to open the gate; one to deactivate the gatekeeper
				and a second to depress and open the gate which automatically closes when
				released; used to minimize roll out or accidental disengagement.
Lockout.
Placing a lockout device on an
				energy-isolating device using an established procedure to make sure the machine
				or equipment cannot be operated until the lockout device is removed.
Lockout device.
A device that uses a positive
				means, such as a key or combination lock, to hold an energy-isolating device in
				the "safe" or "off" position. This includes blank flanges and bolted slip
				blinds.
Manhole.
A subsurface enclosure which personnel
				may enter and which is used for the purpose of installing, operating, and
				maintaining underground and submersible equipment and/or cable.
Manhole platform.
A platform consisting of
				separate planks which are laid across platform supports. The ends of the
				supports are engaged in the manhole cable racks or approved support points
				designed for human support.
Manlift equipment.
Types of portable truck-,
				trailer-, crane-mounted equipment, such as mechanical, electric or hydraulic
				ladders and boom-mounted or suspended buckets, platforms or cages.
Manual descent control device with automatic
				lockoff.
A manual descent control device with automatic lockoff features
				having provision for both "hands-free" and "panic" locking capabilities.
Maximum intended personnel load/gross load.
The
				total load and weight of all employees; their tools, materials, load lines, and
				other loads reasonably anticipated to be applied to the hoist apparatus when an
				employee is hoisted.
Maximum permissible exposure (MPE).
The rms and
				peak electric and magnetic field strength, their squares, or the plane-wave
				equivalent power densities associated with these fields to which a person may
				be exposed without harmful effect and with an acceptable safety factor.
May
(and "should") or "it is recommended" are used
				to indicate the provisions are not mandatory but are recommended.
Microwave transmission.
The act of communicating,
				sending, receiving or signaling utilizing a frequency between 1
				GHz (gigahertz) and 300 GHz
				inclusively.
Mobile crew.
A work crew that routinely moves to a
				different work location periodically. Normally a mobile crew is not at the same
				location all day.
Multi-use site for towers and antennas.
Any site
				where more than one subscriber has antennas for the use of communication
				purposes.
Must
(and "shall") as used in this chapter make
				the provisions mandatory.
Nearby facility.
A sanitary facility that is
				within three minutes travel by the transportation provided.
NEMA.
These initials stand for National Electrical
				Manufacturing Association.
Nominal voltage.
The nominal voltage of a system
				or circuit is the value assigned to a system or circuit of a given voltage
				class for the purpose of convenient designation. The actual voltage may vary
				above or below this value.
Nonionizing radiation (RFR) as related to industrial
				sources.
Electromagnetic radiation within the spectral range of
				approximately 200 nanometers to 3 kilometers including ultraviolet, visible,
				infrared and radiofre-quency/microwave radiation.
Electromagnetic Spectrum Figure 1
Click
				to view image
Normally unattended work location
.
An unattended site that is visited occasionally by one or more
				employees.
Oil sample analysis.
A method used to evaluate
				oil, which may not necessarily mean a laboratory analysis, but one that could
				be effectively accomplished in the field by a qualified person; usually done to
				evaluate/ascertain the PCB levels or insolative qualities of the oil.
One hundred percent (100 percent) fall protection
				.
Each employee exposed to fall hazards above 4 feet while ascending or
				descending, moving point to point, or working from a platform, crane basket,
				lift or bucket truck; must be protected by fall protection 100 percent of the
				time.
Operator (equipment).
A person who runs or
				operates equipment used in the construction and maintenance of communication
				systems.
Permissible exposure limits (PELs)
.
A time-weighted average (TWA) of exposure for an eight-hour work day within a
				forty-hour workweek. Exceptions are those limits which are given a ceiling
				value.
Personal eyewash units.
Portable, supplementary
				units that support plumbed units or self-contained units, or both, by
				delivering immediate flushing for less than fifteen minutes.
Platform.
A work surface elevated above the
				surrounding floor or ground level.
Pole balcony or seat.
A balcony or seat used as a
				support for employees at pole-mounted equipment or terminal boxes. A typical
				device consists of a bolted assembly of composite or steel details and a wooden
				platform. Composite or steel braces run from the pole to the underside of the
				balcony.
Pole platform.
A platform intended for use by an
				employee in splicing and maintenance operations in an elevated position
				adjacent to a pole. It consists of a platform equipped at one end with a hinged
				chain binder for securing the platform to a pole. A brace from the pole to the
				underside of the platform is also provided.
Portable ladder.
A ladder that can be readily
				moved or carried.
Positioning system.
A body belt or full body
				harness system configured to allow an employee to be supported on an elevated
				vertical or inclined surface, such as a wall, and work with both hands free
				from body support.
Positive locking system.
A system that creates a
				mechanical means of ensuring that the connection or interface between two
				components will not slip.
Potable water.
Water that you can safely drink
				that meets specific safety standards prescribed by the United States
				Environmental Protection Agency's
National Interim Primary Drinking
				Water Regulations
, published in 40 C.F.R. Part 141 and
				40
				C.F.R. 147.2400.
Powered lowering.
The act of controlled lowering
				of a load by the use of a system or device in the power train, which can
				control the lowering speed of the winch assembly.
Prime mover.
The system that provides the energy
				to rotate the winch assembly.
Proficient.
A thorough competence derived from
				training and practice.
Proof test.
The act of testing the rigging and
				hoist mechanism whenever newly rigged or after any changes are made to the
				hoist mechanism or rigging.
Protection from hazardous voltage
.
The isolation from or deenergizing of equipment to prevent accidental contact
				by persons or objects on approach to point of danger.
Protective devices or equipment
.
Those devices such as rubber gloves, rubber boots, rubber blankets, line hose,
				rubber hoods or other insulating devices or equipment, which are specially
				designed and appropriate for the electrical protection of employees.
Public highway.
Every way, land, road, street,
				boulevard, and every way or place in the state open as matter of right to
				public vehicular travel, both inside and outside the limit of cities and
				towns.
Pulley.
A sheave wheel that is grooved on the
				outer circumference to hold a wire or synthetic rope in place while turning and
				allows a mechanical advantage for lifting or a change in direction.
Qualified engineer.
A professional engineer
				knowledgeable and experienced in engineering related practices for
				communication structures and/or lifting systems and rigging components commonly
				used in the communication industry.
Qualified line-clearance tree trimmer
.
A tree worker who through related training and on-the-job experience is
				familiar with the special techniques and hazards involved in line
				clearance.
Qualified line-clearance tree trimmer trainee
.
Any employee regularly assigned to a line-clearance
				tree-trimming crew and undergoing on-the-job training who, in the course of
				such training, has demonstrated their ability to perform duties safely at their
				level of training.
Qualified person.
One who is familiar with the
				construction, maintenance, and operation of the equipment and hazards involved,
				or who has passed a journeyman's examination for the particular branch of the
				trades with which they may be connected, and trained in the methods necessary
				to identify and eliminate those hazards. An employee considered to be a
				qualified person depends on various circumstances in the workplace and on the
				level of training they have received and demonstrated competency with the tasks
				required of the job.
Radio frequency radiation (RFR).
See nonionizing
				radiation.
Rated capacity.
The load that a winch assembly may
				handle under given operating conditions and at a known design factor.
Record.
Any item, documentation, collection, or
				grouping of information.
Registered professional engineer (RPE)
.
A registered professional engineer licensed under
				RCW
				18.43.040(1).
Remote site/worksite.
A site/worksite that is over
				thirty minutes from emergency medical services or does not have reliable
				communications.
Rescue.
The process of removing a person from
				danger, harm, or confinement to a safe location.
Rescue plan.
A written process that describes in a
				general manner how rescue is to be approached under the specified parameters,
				such as location or circumstances.
Rescue procedure.
A written series of logical
				steps that describes the specific manner in which rescue is to be
				accomplished.
Rescue system.
An assembly of components and
				subsystems used for rescue.
Rescue system, one person.
A rescue system
				intended to bear only the weight of a single person at one time.
Rescue system, two persons.
A rescue system
				intended to bear the weight of up to two persons simultaneously.
Retraining.
Classroom and/or on-the-job
				instruction required for continued retention of previously learned materials or
				skills.
Rigging.
Includes, but is not limited to, chains,
				slings, ropes, pulleys, hooks, and all accompanying hardware for lifting,
				lowering, suspending, and fastening loads.
Rigging plan.
A systematic and detailed
				presentation showing the equipment and procedures required for a construction
				process that will provide for the safety of personnel and for the stability of
				the structure and lifted components.
Rise.
The vertical distance from the top of a
				tread to the top of the next higher tread.
Riser.
The vertical part of the step at the back
				of a tread that rises to the front of the tread above.
Rooster head.
A sheave assembly located at the top
				of a gin pole capable of rotating 360 degrees or fixed that allows a load line
				to pass through and return to a vertical position.
Rung.
A ladder crosspiece used in climbing or
				descending. Also called a cleat or step.
Safety climb system.
An assembly of components
				whose function is to arrest the fall of a user, including the carrier and its
				associated attachment elements (e.g., brackets, fasteners), the safety sleeve,
				and the body support and connectors, wherein the carrier is permanently
				attached to the climbing face of the ladder or immediately adjacent to the
				structure.
Safety sleeve.
The part of a ladder safety system
				consisting of the moving component with locking mechanism that travels on the
				carrier and makes the connection between the carrier and the full body
				harness.
Safety watch system.
A fall protection system as
				described in WAC
				296-32-22555(10),
				in which a competent person monitors one worker who is engaged in repair work
				or servicing equipment on low pitch roofs only.
Self-retracting lanyard (SRL).
A self-retracting
				device suitable for applications in which the device is mounted or anchored so
				a possible free fall is limited to 2 feet (.6 m) or less.
Shall
(and "must") as used in this chapter make
				the provisions mandatory.
Sheath.
Applied to sharp tools that effectively
				covers the tool.
Should
(and "may") or "it is recommended" are used
				to indicate the provisions are not mandatory but are recommended.
Side plates.
The side plates of sheaves or double
				plate attachment points that support the sheave.
Side-step ladder.
A rail ladder that requires
				stepping from the ladder in order to reach a landing.
Similar structures.
Any structure that holds
				equipment relevant to the communication industry.
Single ladder.
A nonself-supporting portable
				ladder, nonadjustable in length, consisting of one section. The size is
				designated by the overall length of the side rail.
Site/worksite.
Any location where communications
				work is performed or equipment is located to include communications tower or
				antenna and the surrounding land or property where the tower or antenna work is
				being performed.
Slings.
An assembly to be used for lifting when
				connected to a lifting mechanism. The upper portion of the sling is connected
				to the lifting mechanism and the lower support the load, such as looped wire
				rope, synthetic strap, or chain for supporting, cradling, or lifting an
				object.
Special-purpose ladder.
A portable ladder that is
				made by modifying or combining design or construction features of the
				general-purpose types of ladders in order to adapt the ladder to special or
				specific uses.
Special tools and equipment.
Includes, but is not
				limited to, high voltage detector and RFR monitor.
Specular reflection.
A mirror-like
				reflection.
Stair railing.
A vertical barrier attached to a
				stairway with an open side to prevent falls. The top surface of the stair
				railing is used as a handrail.
Stairs or stairway.
A series of steps and landings
				that lead from: One level or floor to another; to platforms, pits, boiler
				rooms, crossovers, or around machinery, tanks, and other equipment; and are
				used more or less continuously or routinely by employees, or only occasionally
				by specific individuals. A stair or stairway may also be defined as having
				three or more risers.
Standard safeguard.
Safety devices that prevent
				hazards by their attachment to machinery, appliances, tools, buildings, and
				equipment. These safeguards must be constructed of metal, wood, or other
				suitable materials. The department makes the final determination about whether
				a safeguard is sufficient for its use.
Static brakes.
Brakes used once the motion of the
				drum has come to a complete stop to prevent creeping or slippage. Static brakes
				are not necessarily separate from the primary braking system or may be
				redundant in application. A locking device on a primary braking system may be
				used.
Step.
A ladder crosspiece used in climbing or
				descending. Also called a cleat or rung.
Step bolt.
A round or flat member affixed to the
				structure on one end with the other end having a means to prevent the foot from
				sliding off.
Strand.
A stranded wire used to support a
				conductor, pole or other structures, such as "guys," etc.
Structure owner.
The employer responsible for
				controlling, operating and maintaining the structure.
Subcontractor.
The employer engaged by the owner
				or general contractor responsible for completing specific portions of a project
				in accordance with all applicable specifications.
System operator/owner.
The person or organization
				that operates or controls the electrical conductors involved.
Tag line and/or trolley line.
A method or system
				of applying a force to control a load and having the ability to create a space
				between the load and structure or gin pole.
Tagout.
Placing a tagout device on an
				energy-isolating device using an established procedure to indicate that the
				energy-isolating device and the machine or equipment being controlled may not
				be operated until the tagout device is removed.
Tagout device.
A prominent warning device, such as
				a tag and a means of attachment. It can be securely fastened to an
				energy-isolating device to indicate that the energy-isolating device and the
				machine or equipment being controlled may not be operated until the tagout
				device is removed.
Teardown inspection.
The complete disassembly,
				cleaning, inspection, and replacement of all worn, cracked, corroded or
				distorted parts such as pins, bearings, shafts, gears, brake rotors, brake
				plates, drum, and base that may affect the operation of the winch
				assembly.
Telecommunications facility.
A site or
				installation of communication equipment under the exclusive control of an
				organization providing telecommunications service, that is located outdoors or
				in a vault, chamber, or a building space used primarily for such
				installations.
Telecommunications digger derricks
.
Rotating or nonrotating derrick structures permanently mounted on vehicles for
				the purpose of lifting, lowering, or positioning hardware and materials used in
				telecommunications work.
Telecommunication service.
The furnishing of a
				capability to signal or communicate at a distance by means such as telephone,
				telegraph, police and fire-alarm, community antenna television, or similar
				system, using wire, conventional cable, coaxial cable, wave guides, microwave
				transmission, or other similar means.
Through ladder.
A rail ladder that requires
				stepping through the ladder in order to reach a landing.
TIA maintenance and condition assessment
.
A comprehensive assessment that addresses the following items -
				Structure condition, finish, lighting, grounding, antennas and lines,
				appurtenances, insulator condition (if applicable), guy wires condition and
				tensions, concrete foundations, guyed mast anchors and structure alignment
				(plumb). Once the assessment occurs, a maintenance plan is adopted, if not
				corrected during the assessment, to bring the structure within recommended TIA,
				manufacturer or engineer of record guidelines.
Time-weighted average (TWA).
An exposure limit,
				averaged over eight hours that must not be exceeded during an employee's work
				shift.
Toe board.
A horizontal barrier at floor level
				erected along all open sides or edges of a floor opening, platform, runway,
				ramp, or other walking/working surface to prevent materials, tools, or debris
				from falling onto persons passing through or working in the area below.
Tower and tower site.
See "site."
Tower construction.
The building of a new tower or
				structure, or the installation of new equipment on an existing tower or
				structure.
Tower maintenance work.
The replacement or work on
				any device on an existing tower, the repair of existing equipment, and
				painting.
Training program.
A program designed to provide
				education through an established system of designing, developing, delivering,
				monitoring, evaluating, documenting and managing, safety, health and
				environmental training.
Tread.
As used in stairs and stair railings
				summary (see WAC
				296-800-250 ), the
				horizontal part of the stair step.
Tread run.
As used in stairs and stair railings
				summary (see WAC
				296-800-250 ), the
				distance from the front of one stair tread to the front of an adjacent
				tread.
Tread width.
The distance from front to rear of
				the same tread including the nose, if used.
Trial lift.
Testing a specified load weight from
				ground level to the location of where personnel or equipment are to be
				hoisted.
Two blocking.
An unsafe condition that occurs on a
				system when the overhaul ball, hook block, or headache ball on the load line
				comes in contact with the main load sheave.
UL (Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.)
.
You will find these initials on electrical cords and equipment. The
				initials mean the cord or equipment meets the standards set by the
				Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.
Unvented vault.
An enclosed vault in which the
				only openings are access openings.
Vault.
An enclosure above or below ground which
				personnel may enter, and which is used for the purpose of installing,
				operating, and/or maintaining equipment and/or cable which need not be of
				submersible design.
Vented vault.
An enclosure, with provision for air
				changes using exhaust flue stack(s) and low level air intake(s), operating on
				differentials of pressure and temperature providing for air flow.
Vertical lifeline.
A vertical suspended flexible
				line used with a fall arrestor system to arrest a fall while a worker is in the
				act of climbing or stationary. When following the manufacturer's specifications
				vertical lifelines can be used for other configurations.
Voltage communications.
Voltage used for
				electronic communications equipment to which employees or protective equipment
				may be subjected.
(a)
High
- Over 600 volts to ground - RMS AC
				or DC or over 1,000 volts RMS across bare parts.
(b)
Medium high
- 151 to 600 volts to ground -
				RMS AC or DC or 301 to 1,000 volts RMS AC across any bare parts.
Voltage electric supply.
The maximum effective
				line voltage to which the employees or protective equipment may be
				subjected.
(a)
Low
includes voltages from 100 to 600
				volts.
(b)
High
includes voltages 601 volts and
				above.
Voltage of an effectively grounded circuit
.
The highest nominal voltage available between any conductor and ground
				unless otherwise indicated.
Voltage of a circuit not effectively grounded
.
The highest nominal voltage available between any two
				conductors. If one circuit is directly connected to and supplied from another
				circuit of higher voltage (as in the case of an autotransformer), both are
				considered as of the higher voltage, unless the circuit of lower voltage is
				effectively grounded, in which case its voltage is not determined by the
				circuit of higher voltage. Direct connection implies electric connection as
				distinguished from connection merely through electromagnetic or electrostatic
				induction.
Voltage, nominal.
A value assigned to a circuit or
				system to designate its voltage class (120/240, 480Y/277, 600, etc.). The
				actual circuit voltage can vary from the value if it is within a range that
				permits the equipment to continue operating in a satisfactory manner.
Watertight.
Constructed so that moisture will not
				enter the enclosure or container.
Weatherproof.
Constructed or protected so that
				exposure to the weather will not interfere with successful operation.
				Rainproof, rain tight, or watertight equipment can fulfill the requirements for
				weatherproof where varying weather conditions other than wetness, such as snow,
				ice, dust, or temperature extremes, are not a factor.
Well.
A walled enclosure around a fixed ladder
				that provides a person climbing the ladder with the same protection as a
				cage.
Winch/hoist.
A mechanical device for lifting and
				lowering loads by winding rope onto or off a drum.
Wire rope (cable).
A rope made of strands of metal
				wire; a cord of metal wire used to operate, suspend or pull a mechanism or
				winch line.
Working length.
The length of a
				nonself-support-ing ladder, measured along the rails, from the base support
				point of the ladder to the point of bearing at the top.
Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 94-15-096 (Order
				  94-07), § 296-32-210, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94; Order 76-38,
				  § 296-32-210, filed 12/30/76; Order 75-41, § 296-32-210, filed
				  12/19/75.