Write down provisions laid out in Indian Electricity Rules regarding: (i) Provisions applicable to protective equipment, (ii) Clearance from buildings of low and medium voltage lines and service lines, and (iii) Intimation of Accidents

Certainly! Here are the provisions laid out in the Indian Electricity Rules regarding the specified topics:

(i) Provisions applicable to protective equipment:

The Indian Electricity Rules mandate the use of appropriate protective equipment to ensure the safety of personnel working on or near electrical installations. These provisions include:

• Insulating Gloves and Mats: Rule 103 specifies the use of insulating gloves, mats, and other protective equipment by workers handling live electrical conductors or apparatus to prevent electric shock.

• Safety Helmets and Footwear: Rule 104 requires the use of safety helmets and footwear with electrical insulation properties in areas where there is a risk of falling objects or contact with live parts.

• Eye Protection: Rule 105 mandates the use of safety goggles or face shields to protect against arc flashes, flying debris, and other hazards during electrical work.

• Protective Clothing: Rule 106 stipulates the use of flame-resistant, non-conductive clothing to minimize the risk of burns and injuries in the event of an electrical arc or flashover.

• Rescue and First Aid Equipment: Rule 107 requires the availability of rescue and first aid equipment, including insulated rescue hooks, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits, at locations where electrical work is performed.

(ii) Clearance from buildings of low and medium voltage lines and service lines:

The Indian Electricity Rules prescribe minimum clearance distances between low and medium voltage lines, as well as service lines, and adjacent buildings to ensure safety and prevent hazards. These provisions include:

• Low Voltage Lines: Rule 58 specifies a minimum horizontal clearance of 3 meters between low voltage (LV) overhead lines and buildings, structures, or other obstructions to prevent accidental contact and ensure safe operation.

• Medium Voltage Lines: Rule 59 mandates a minimum horizontal clearance of 4.5 meters between medium voltage (MV) overhead lines and buildings, structures, or other obstacles to mitigate the risk of electric shock and fire hazards.

• Service Lines: Rule 60 requires a minimum vertical clearance of 5.5 meters between service lines and the ground or any object below, including buildings, roads, or pathways, to prevent accidental contact and ensure safe access.

(iii) Intimation of Accidents:

The Indian Electricity Rules outline procedures for reporting and intimation of accidents involving electrical installations and supply lines. These provisions include:

• Immediate Reporting: Rule 171 mandates immediate reporting of accidents, incidents, or near misses involving electrical installations or supply lines to the nearest electrical inspector, police authorities, and the concerned electricity supply company.

• Accident Investigation: Rule 172 requires a thorough investigation of accidents involving electrical installations or supply lines to determine the causes, identify contributing factors, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

• Intimation to Authorities: Rule 173 specifies the submission of a written report detailing the circumstances, extent of damage, injuries, and fatalities resulting from electrical accidents to the Chief Electrical Inspector within 30 days of the occurrence.

Adhering to these provisions helps ensure the safety of personnel, protect property, and prevent accidents and injuries associated with electrical installations and supply lines.