Section 125.10 - Scope, Nature and Application of 220 CMR 125.00(1)Scope.(a)Extent of Application. The following rules apply to electric transmission lines operating at alternating current voltages over 50,000 volts phase to phase in overhead and underground construction operated in connection with public utilities, privately or municipally owned. The clearances listed in the tables take into account the fact that the transmission line may be operated at 5% above the voltages indicated in the tables.(b)Not Complete Specifications. 220 CMR 125.00 is not complete specifications, but are intended to embody the requirements which are most important from the standpoint of safety. Rules in 220 CMR 125.00 are to be regarded as mandatory are characterized by the use of the word "shall". Where a rule is of an advisory nature, it is indicated by the use of the word "should".(c)Conformity with Good Practice. Construction should be made according to accepted good practice for the given local conditions in all particulars not specified in the rules.(2)Application of the Rules and Exemptions. (a)Realization of Intent. The intent of the rules will be realized by applying them to all new installations, reconstructions, and extensions made subsequent to the effective date of 220 CMR 125.00. However, the requirements of 220 CMR 125.20 shall apply to existing and new lines.(b)Intent, Modification. 220 CMR 125.00 shall apply to all in stallations, except as modified or waived by the Department. They are intended to be modified or waived for reasons such as, but not limited to , the following: 1. Where construction requirements are not justified by the protection secured or where the advantage of uniformity with existing construction is greater than the advantage of construction in conformity with the rules or where the rules are shown to be impracticable; provided equivalent or safer construction can be accomplished in other ways.2. Where lines were designed and commitments made to purchase material prior to the effective date of 220 CMR 125.00. Requests for modification or waiver of any rule or rules in connection with particular installations shall be made in writing to the Department.
It is not intended that these rules shall supersede rules of others having jurisdiction in specific areas.
(c)Temporary Installations. It will sometimes be necessary to modify or waive certain rules in cases of temporary installations or installations which are soon to be discarded or reconstructed, subject to review by the Department after a 90-day period.(d)Interpretations. Interpretations are intended to clarify the intent of specific rules and are not intended to supply consulting information on the application of the code. Requests for interpretation may be addressed to the Department. After due consideration by the Department, the inquirer will be notified of its decision.(e)Waiver in Emergencies. In case of emergency or pending decision of the Department, the person responsible for the installation may decide as to modification or waiver of any rule, subject to review by the Department. The person responsible shall promptly notify the Department of any emergency action which does not conform to 220 CMR 125.00.(3)Minimum Requirements. The rules state the minimum requirements for spacing, clearances, and strength of construction. More ample spacings and clearances or greater strength of construction may be provided if other requirements are not neglected in so doing.(4)Design and Construction. All transmission lines shall be of suitable design and construction for the normal service and conditions under which they are to be operated.(5)Construction and Maintenance. All transmission lines shall be constructed and maintained so as to reduce hazards to life insofar as practicable.