(1) Since storm work and emergency conditions create special hazards, only authorized representatives of the electric utility system operator/owner or a qualified tree trimmer per chapter 296-45 WAC and not telecommunication employees may perform tree work in these situations where energized electrical power conductors are involved.

(2) When an emergency condition develops due to tree operations, work must be suspended and the electric utility system operator/owner must be notified immediately.

(3) Telecommunication employers must not allow their employees to perform any storm damage work until given the all clear that it is safe to enter an area by the electrical utility system operator/owner.

(4) During storm damage recovery operations and after the utility has given the all clear, all employees working on communications suspension strand and conductive cables must use insulated gloves and an approved voltage detector (20 kV) to test for voltage.