Equipment with booms or masts which are not properly protected shall not be operated when the booms or masts can come within how many feet of an energized overhead powerline?

• A. 5 feet
• B. 10 feet
• C. 15 feet
• D. 20 feet

Answer: (B)

When equipment with booms or masts could move into a live line, you must keep a safe minimum clearance. Ten feet provides a reliable buffer to prevent contact or an electric arc if the boom swings, extends, or shifts due to movement or weather. This distance minimizes the risk of electric shock or arc exposure while allowing normal operation within a safe range. Distances smaller than ten feet increase the danger, while larger clearances are more conservative than needed for this standard rule.