What is the minimum safe operating distance for applying water on a live 138 kV electrical component from a Con Ed facility?

The minimum safe operating distance for applying water on a live 138 kV electrical component from a Con Edison facility is 75 feet. This distance is established based on safety protocols designed to prevent electrical hazards and ensure the safety of personnel. When dealing with high-voltage electrical equipment like 138 kV components, applying water can be extremely dangerous due to the risk of electrical shock, arc flash, or other electrical incidents.

The importance of maintaining a safe distance is to keep firefighters and emergency personnel away from the potential reach of an electrical arc or any accidental conductance of electricity. This precaution helps to mitigate risks associated with high-voltage incidents where water, being a conductor of electricity, could create additional hazards if used improperly. Safely managing these distances is critical for effective emergency response operations while protecting both the responders and the public.