1. (1) While work is being performed in manholes or vaults occupied jointly by an electric utility and a telecommunication utility;

   1. (a) The employer must demonstrate that the employee will be protected from all electrical hazards;
   2. (b) An employee with basic first-aid training must be available in the immediate vicinity to render emergency assistance as required;
   3. (c) An employee is not to be precluded from occasionally entering a manhole to provide assistance other than in an emergency.

2. (2) In manholes or vaults where energized cables or equipment are in service, an employee working alone may only enter, for brief periods of time, for the purpose of inspection, housekeeping, taking readings, or similar work.

   Note:

   Entry procedures meeting the criteria of WAC 296-809-60002 are deemed acceptable. All other entry requirements fall under the permit entry procedures as defined in chapter 296-809 WAC.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 20-20-109, § 296-32-23530, filed 10/6/20, effective 11/6/20. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 17-20-069, § 296-32-23530, filed 10/2/17, effective 1/1/18.]