Utilities would need defibrillators at certain power line worksites

Utilities, contractors, and subcontractors would ensure that each covered worksite has at least one automated external defibrillator available for emergencies. Covered sites have at least two utility, contractor, or subcontractor employees working on electrical transmission or distribution lines of 601 volts or more. Employees would need access to the device without unreasonable delay. The Public Service Commission would set rules for device placement, access, transportation, and availability. The requirements would take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law, with commission rulemaking authorized beforehand.

Utilities would keep written emergency plans, train employees to use defibrillators, and maintain the devices. Plans would cover emergency response at sites with at least two workers working on power lines of 601 volts or more. Utilities would share the plans with contractors and subcontractors and require them to follow them. Utilities would test devices, keep upkeep records, and promptly fix, replace, or provide another device when one is not ready. These requirements would take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law.

Utility employees would receive protection from having to pay money in civil lawsuits over emergency care they give with a defibrillator. The protection would cover utility employees' actions and failures to act while giving that care. The employee must act in good faith and must not be paid for providing the emergency care. This protection would take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law.