An electrical panel is being serviced in an energized state due to operational requirements. What is the minimum approach distance for qualified persons working on 480-volt equipment?
Correct Answer
C) Avoid contact
For voltages up to 1kV, OSHA requires qualified persons to avoid contact with energized parts. Higher voltages have specific minimum approach distances, but low voltage work requires avoiding contact entirely.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
According to OSHA 29 CFR 1926.95(c)(1), for electrical equipment operating at voltages up to 1,000 volts (1kV), qualified persons must avoid contact with energized parts entirely. The 480-volt equipment falls well within this range, making 'avoid contact' the correct safety requirement. While specific minimum approach distances are established for higher voltage systems, low voltage work like this 480V panel requires complete avoidance of contact with energized components.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: 3 feet
One foot is incorrect because OSHA does not establish specific minimum approach distances for voltages under 1kV. The requirement is simply to avoid contact entirely, not maintain a specific distance.
Option D: 1 foot
Five feet is incorrect and would apply to much higher voltage equipment. This distance is excessive for 480V work and not required by OSHA standards for low voltage systems.
Memory Technique
Think 'Low voltage, NO contact' - for anything under 1kV, the rule is simple: don't touch energized parts at all.
Reference Hint
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.95 - Personal Protective Equipment, specifically subsection (c) regarding electrical protective equipment
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