Who is authorized to de-energize, insulate, or handle power lines?

The correct response is that the utility company is authorized to de-energize, insulate, or handle power lines. This is because utility companies have the necessary expertise, training, and certification to manage electrical power systems safely. Their personnel are trained in establishing lockout/tagout protocols and understanding the potential hazards involved with working around live electricity.

De-energizing power lines is a critical operation that involves significant safety risks, and it generally requires strict adherence to regulatory standards and operational procedures. Utility companies not only have the technical knowledge required to perform these tasks safely but also possess the authorization to work directly on public and private power distribution systems.

In contrast, crane operators, supervisors, and safety officers typically do not have the specialized training or authority to perform these actions, as their roles focus on different aspects of safety and operational management around construction and industrial environments.