When excavating near energized lines, how far should digging be done by hand or a vacuum truck?

When excavating near energized lines, it is important to follow safety guidelines to prevent accidental contact with the lines, which can result in serious injury or damage. The correct distance for hand digging or using a vacuum truck is 5 feet. This distance is established to ensure that workers maintain a safe working environment while minimizing the risk of accidents that could occur from mechanical operations close to energized lines.

Choosing to dig by hand or use a vacuum truck within this specified distance allows for greater control and precision in the excavation process. This practice helps to prevent any unintended contact with underground utilities, which is critical for both the safety of workers and the integrity of the utility lines. Other distances mentioned in the options, while they may seem safer at a glance, are not typically prescribed for this specific scenario within the relevant regulatory standards, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established safety protocols in the industry.