(1) General. Material handling and storage must conform to the requirements of chapter 296-24 WAC, Part D.

(2) Materials storage near energized lines or equipment. In areas not restricted to qualified electrical employees only, materials or equipment cannot be stored closer to energized lines or exposed energized parts of equipment than the following distances plus an amount providing for the maximum sag and side swing of all conductors and providing for the height and movement of material handling equipment:

(a) For lines and equipment energized at 50 kV or less, the distance is 10 feet (305 cm).

(b) For lines and equipment energized at more than 50 kV, the distance is 10 feet (305 cm) plus 4 inches (10 cm) for every 10 kV over 50 kV.

(c) In areas restricted to qualified electrical employees, material cannot be stored within the working space about energized lines or equipment.

(3) Prior to unloading steel, poles, crossarms and similar materials, the load must be thoroughly examined to determine if the load has shifted, binders or stakes have broken or the load is otherwise hazardous to employees. The hoist rope must not be wrapped around the load. This provision will not apply to electric construction crews when setting or removing poles.

(4) Pole handling.

(a) During pole hauling operations, all loads must be secured to prevent displacement, and a red flag must be displayed at the trailing end of the longest pole.

(b) While loading and unloading materials, roadways must not be blocked unless approved traffic control is used.

(c) When hauling poles during darkness, illuminated warning devices must be attached to the trailing end of the longest pole in accordance with the state of Washington motor vehicle code.

(d) Framing. During framing operations, employees must not work under a pole or a structure suspended by a crane, A-frame or similar equipment unless the pole or structure is adequately supported.

(5) Tag lines. When necessary to control loads, tag lines or other approved devices must be used.

(6) Oil filled equipment. During construction or repair of oil filled equipment, the oil may be stored in temporary containers other than those required by WAC 296-155-270, such as pillow tanks.

(7) Storage of tools and materials. All tools and materials must be stored in a safe and orderly manner in yards for equipment and other areas.