20220706Idaho Administrative Bulletin Stray Voltage.pdf

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IDAPA 31 - IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
3I.6{.OI - RULES FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF STRAY CURRENT OR VOLTAGE
(STRAYVOLTAGE RULES)
DOCKET NO. 3l-6101-2201 IZBR CHAPTER REWRTTE)
NOTICE OF RULEMAKING - PROPOSED RULE
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AUTHORITY: In compliance with Section 67-5221(l),ldaho Code, notice is hereby given that this agency has
initiated proposed rulemaking procedures. The action is authorized pursuant to the Idaho Public Utilities Law
Section(s) 6l-515 and 6l-520 of the Idaho Code and the Stray Current and Voltage Remediation Act, Section 6l-803,
Idaho Code, and Executive Order No. 2020-01.
PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULE: Public hearing(s) conceming this rulemaking will be scheduled if requested in
writing by twenty-five (25) persons, a political subdivision, or an agency, not later than July 20,2022.
The hearing site(s) will be accessible to persons with disabilities. Requests for accommodation must be made not
later than five (5) days prior to the hearing, to the agency address below.
DESCRIPTM SUMMARY: The following is a nontechnical explanation of the substance and purpose of the
proposed rulemaking:
The Idaho Public Utilities Commission initiated this rulemaking in compliance with Executive Order No. 2020-
0l: Zero-Based Regulation, issued by Governor Little on January 16,2020. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 2020-
01, each rule chapter effective on June 30,2020, shall be reviewed by the agency that promulgated the rule. The
review will be conducted according to a schedule established by the Division of Financial Management, Office of the
Governor (DFM), posted at https://adminrules.idaho.gov/rulemaking_templates/index.html. This is the ldaho Public
Utilities Commission's rule chapter IDAPA 31.61.01 up for review in 2022.
FEE SUMMARY: The following is a specific description of the fee or charge imposed or increased: None.
FISCAL IMPACT: The following is a specific description, if applicable, of any negative fiscal impact on the state
general fund greater than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) during the fiscal year resulting from this rulemaking: None.
NEGOTIATED RULEMAKING: Pursuant to Section 67-5220(l), Idaho Code, negotiated rulemaking was
conducted. The Notice of Intent to Promulgate Rules - Negotiated Rulemaking was published in the April 6,2022 -Administrative B ulletin, Yol. 22- 4 page 43 - 4 4.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE: Pursuant to Section 67-5229(2)(a)" Idaho Code, the following is a brief
synopsis of why the materials cited are being incorporated by reference into this rule:
Sets the ground rules and guidelines for practical safeguarding of utility workers and the public during the
installation, operation, and maintenance of electric supply, communication lines and associated equipment. The
National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and the National Electrical Code (NEC).
ASSISTANCE ON TECHNICAL QUESTIONS, SUBMISSION OF WRITTEN COMMENTS: For assistance
on technical questions concerning the proposed rule, contact Stephen Goodson at [phone]. Anyone may
submit written comments regarding this proposed rulemaking. All written comments must be directed to the
undersigned and must be delivered on or before July 27,2022.
DAIED this May 17,2022.
Jan Noriyuki
Commission Secretaryll33l West Chinden Blvd, Ste 201-A
Boise,ID 83714
[phone]
Secretary@puc. idaho.gov
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Stray Voltage Rules
Docket No. 31 -61 01 -2201
Proposed Rulemaking
THE FOLLOWING IS THE PROPOSED TEXT OF DOCKET NO. 3I-6101-2201
(Zero Based Regulation (ZBR) Chapter Rewrite)
3I.61.01 . RULES FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF STRAY CURRENT OR VOLTAGE
(STRAY VOLTAGE RULES)
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Rules 0 through 20
000. LEGALAUTHORTTY(RULE0).
Idaho Public Utilities Law, Sections 6l-515 and 6l-520, Idaho Code, and the Stray Current and Voltage Remediation
Act, Section 6l-803, Idaho Code. ( )
001. TrTLE (RULE 1).
01. Title. The title of these rules is the IDAPA 31.61.01, o'Rules for the Measurement of Stray Current
or Voltage" (Shay Voltage Rules). ( )
002. -- 003. (RESERVED)
004. TNCoRPORATION BYREFERENCE -REFERENCE TO SAFETY CODES (RULE 4).
01. Safety Codes. ( )
a. The National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) is applicable to public utilities and is adopted by the
Commission Order, "Safety and Accident Reporting Rules for Utilities Regulated by the Idaho Public UtilitiesCommission." ( )
b. The National Electrical Code (NEC) is applicable to the installation of wires and facilities used to
convey electric current and to apparatus to be operated by such electric current. Adoption ofthe National Electrical
Code is found at Section 54-1001, Idaho Code, and IDAPA 07.01.06, "Rules Goveming the Use of National
Electrical Code," Section 0ll. ( )
00s. -- 009. (RESERVED)
010. DEFTNTTTONS (RULE 10).
01. Incorporation by Reference. These rules incorporate by reference definitions found in Idaho
Code 61-802, the NEC and the NESC. ( )
U2. Equipotential Plane (EPP). See NEC. ( )
03. Primery System. The high voltage utility electrical system including the generation, transmission
and distribution systems. It also refers to the high voltage side of a distribution transformer. ( )
04. Secondary System. Means the low-voltage utility electrical system on the secondary side of a
distribution transformer. The dairy's on-farm system begins on the dairy's side of the metering points, except for
dairies metered on the high voltage side of the transformer(s). In the case of dairies metered on the high voltage side,
the on-farm system begins at the transformer's low-voltage lugs. ( )
05. Service Provider. Any person, company or other legal entity providing stray voltage or current
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Rules
testing, consulting, measurements, analysis services, construction, or hardware. ( )
06. Shunt Resistor. A physical resistor or combination of resistors used to simulate a dalry cow's body
resistance, body-to-metal contact resistance, and hoof-to-earth contact resistance between the cow and contact points
during the measurement of cow contact voltage. A shunt resistor shall be five hundred (500) ohm plus or minus two
percent (+/-2o/o). ( )
07. Source Resistance. That portion ofresistance in the circuit, other than the resistance ofthe cow
and its contact resistance, when the cow is completing a circuit between contact points. ( )
08.
a.
Stray Current or Voltage.()
()
voltage.
Unless the context otherwise requires, the term "stray voltage" shall mean sfuy current or
(
stray
)
09. Tests, Meesurements, Procedures and Analysis. Means any or all of the stray voltage testing,
measurement, work and work product defined in these rules. ( )
10. Transient. Transient or transient deviation means a non-steady state increase or spike in voltage or
current. For the purpose of identifring and reporting transients in cow contact voltage (Vcc) or current (Icc), a
transient occurs when the recorded maximum Vcc or Icc in a recording interval exceeds two hundred percent (200%)
of the steady state Vcc or Icc recorded during the same recording interval. ( )
11. Utility. Means a public electric utility as defined in Section 6l-332{,Idaho Code. ( )
01r. -- 020. (RESERVED)
APPLICABILITY AND ADMISSIBILITY
Rules 21 through 30
021. urILrrY(RULE 21).
A utility measuring or testing for stray voltage or culrent at the request of a dairy producer, as directed by the
Commission or on its own initiative, shall conduct such measurements in accordance with these rules. ( )
022. DATRYPRODUCER(RULE22).
0I. Serving Notice on the Utility. A dairy producer providing written notice to a utility pursuant to
Section 6l-804,Idaho Code, may provide such notice with or without first having conducted tests or measurements
of stray voltage. ( )
02. Cooperation. When a written notice is filed with the utility, the dairy is obligated to make any
contact point(s), service panels, grounding rods or other electrical equipment at the dairy available to the utility for
measuring and testing. The utility shall provide reasonable notice and cooperate with the dairy producer to establish
an approptate time to conduct the tests and measuremenls. The dairy shall cooperate with the utility so that alllests
and nieaiurements necessary to identiS the existence and magnitude ofstray current or voltage, ifany, are completed
within fourteen (14) days ofthe utility's receipt of such notice. ( )
023. SERVICE PROVIDERS (RULE 23).
All service providers shall follow these rules.
024. -- 030. (RESERVED)
QUALIFICATIONS OF PERSONS PERFORMING AND ANALYZING
RESULTS OT' STRAY VOLITAGE TESTS
Rules 31 through 50
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03r. PERFORMANCE OFTESTSAND MEASUREMENTS (RULE 31).
Measuring and testing for stray voltage under these rules for consideration by the Commission shall be performed by
a qualified testing professional as such: ( )
01. Professional Engineer. A professional engineer, licensed in any state, who has completed no fewer
than forty-eight (48) hours of Commission-approved stray voltage training and who has been involved in no fewer
than five (5) prior investigations involving the measurement or testing of stray voltage. ( )
02. Master Electrician. A master electrician, licensed in any state, who has completed no fewer than
fony-eight (48) hours of Commission-apprcved stray voltage training and who has been involved in no fewer than
five (5) prior investigations involving the measurement or testing of stray voltage. ( )
03. Technician. A technician who, under the supervision of a person presumed qualified under
Subsections 031.01 and 031.02, has completed no fewer than eight (8) houn of Commission-approved stray voltage
training and who has been involved in no fewer than five (5) prior investigations involving the measurement or
testing ofstray voltage. ( )
032. DATAAT\TALYSTS (RULE 32).
Analysis of data under these rules, for consideration by the Commission, shall be performed by a qualified analyst. A
professional engineer, licensed in any state, who has completed no fewer than forty-eight (48) hours of stray voltage
training and who has been involved in no fewer than five (5) prior investigations involving measurement or testing of
stray voltage shall be presumed to be a qualified analyst. ( )
033. PERSONS OTHERWTSE QUALTFTED (RULE 33).
A person who does not satisfr the qualifications in Sections 031 and 032, may nonetheless be determined by the
Commission to be a qualified testing professional or a qualified analyst if, on motion of any party, the Commission
finds that person otherwise possesses the knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education that qualifies that
person to offer expert testimony before the Commission. ( )
034. -- 050. (RESERVED)
CALIBRATION OF AND EQUIPMENT USED FOR MEASURING
AND RECORDING VOI.,;TAGE, CURRENT, AND RESISTANCE
Rules 51 through 70
O5I. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR STRAY VOLIAGE MEASURING AND RECORDING
EQUTPMENT(RULE s1).
Equipment used for the measurement or testing of stray voltage, current, and resistance shall meet the followingcriteria: ( )
01. Resolution and Accuracy. The accuracy and resolution of any instrument used to measure or
record cow contact voltage or current, shall limit the error to five percent (5%) or less at one volt (l V) or two
milliampere (2 mA). ( )
02. Voltage Measurement. lnstruments used to measure cow contact voltage shall be capable of
separating and independently measuring alternating curent (AC) and direct current (DC) voltages. These instruments
shall have a minimum intemal impedance of ten thousand (10,000) ohm and shall be capable of measuring the true-
rms voltage. ( )
03. Current Measurement. A clamp-on ammeter, a digital multi-meter (DMM) with clamp-on device,
or an in-line ammeter shall be used to measure current through a conductor or resistor connected between two (2)
points. The meters shall be capable of separating and independently measuring alternating current (AC) and direct
current (DC) and shall be capable of measuring the true-rms current. Care must be taken to assure that clamp-on
ammeters used have the required resolution and accuracy. ( )
04. Resistance Measurement. Resistance shall be measured using either a volt ohmmeter (VOM) or a
DMM. Resolution shall be to the level of one (l) ohm or less when measuring a resistance of less than one thousand
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(1,000) ohm. Accuracy shall be within plus or minus five (+/-5) ohm for a five hundred (500) ohm resistance. ( )
05. Resistance-to-Earth Measurement. Grounding electrode resistance-to-earth measurements shall
be made with a three- (3) point fall-of-potential instrument or a clamp-on resistance-to-earth tester. ( )
052. CALIBRATTON REQT.TTREMENTS (RULE 52).
01. Measuring Equipment Calibration. All measuring equipment shall be calibrated according to the
manufacturer's recommended calibration schedule, but no less than annually, to meet the manufacturer's
specifications for the accuracy and resolution of the equipment. Measuring equipment shall not be used after its next
"calibration due" date for measurements or tests conducted during a stray voltage investigation. Calibration shall be
perforrred by either: ( )
a. The manufacturer of the equipment, who shall certify that the equipment meets the manufacturer's
specifications for accuracy and resolution; or ( )
b. A laboratory currently certified as meeting all applicable Institute of Electrical and Electronic
Engineers (IEEE) and International Organization for Standards (ISO) standards. ( )
02. Calibration Certificates. The service provider performing the tests and measurements shall
maintain certificates from the manufacturer or the calibration laboratory demonstrating compliance with calibrationrequirements. ( )
03. Field Check. Before voltage or current measurement or testing is performed, the instrument shall
be field-checked by comparing measurements to those of other instruments or against a known source. ( )
0s3. REQUTREMENTS FOR MONITORING AND Rf,CORDTNG DEVTCES (RULE 53).
Digital recording devices shall be used for the purpose ofrecording current and voltage for extended periods, such as
the forly-eight (48) hour test. The recording devices shall have the same level of resolution and accuracy as the
meters being used for the measurements. Monitoring systems, which combine measuring and recording functions in a
single instrument, shall have the same level of resolution and accuracy as specified in Section 051. Recording devices
and monitoring systems shall be capable of recording transient deviations of one-tenth (0.1) second or less in duration
from the steady state. Digital recording devices, which have deviation settings, shall permit the deviation setting to be
set "low" enough to meet the resolution and accuracy requirements in Subsection 051.01 of these rules. All recording
devices shall be able to log the time and date of all data recorded and shall have their intemal clocks synchronized.()
0s4. REQUTR"EMENTS FORLOAD BOXES (RULE 54).
01. Volts. A load box shall be a primarily non-inductive nominal two hundred forty (240) volt,
resistance heating type load with a minimum nominal full load of eighteen (18) kilowatts (kW). ( )
02. Split-Load. A load box shall be capable of operating at two (2) or more load settings, including
approximately fifty percent (50%) and one hundred percent (100%) of the load box's rated total load. ( )
oss. -- 070. (RESERVED)
TESTING AND MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES
Rules 7l through 80
071. STRAY CURRENT OR VOLTAGE TESTS (RTJLE 71).
Subject to Subsection 071.02, there are six (6) tests used to detect and measure stray current or voltage. ( )
01. Scheduling of Stray Voltage Tests. Efforts shall be made to perform the tests under conditions
substantially similar to those conditions existing at the time(s) the dairy producer believes stray voltage to be aproblem. ( )
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a. Test I - Cow Contact Test; ( )
b. Test 2 - Forty-Eight (48) Hour Test ( )
c. Test 3 - Primary Profile Test; ( )
d. Test 4 - Secondary Neutral Voltage Drop Test; ( )
e. Test 5 - Load Box Test; and ( )
f. Test 6 - Sigrature Test. ( )
02. Testing Sequence. Test I shall be performed first. Tests I and2 are used to determine the presence
and level ofstray voltage and shall be performed in all investigations, subject to the provisions ofSubsection 071.03.
Tests 3,4, 5, and 6 may be performed in any order and may be performed without first determining that these tests are
required under Paragraph 071.02.b. Tests 3, 4, 5, and 6 may be performed prior to starting the recording for Test 2 or
while Test 2 is in progress. Test 2 may be intemrpted as necessary to conduct Tests 4, 5, and 6, or for review and
analysis ofthe data recorded up to that point. ( )
a. Ifthe results from Tests I and 2 indicate that stray voltage does not exceed the preventive action
level (PAL), the utility has no further testing or remediation obligations under these rules during this test cycle.()
b. If the PAL is exceeded, the utility shall perform the remaining four (4) tests except as provided in
Subsection 071.03. The utility shall also perform analysis to determine whether the portion of the stray current or
voltage athibutable to an off-farm source exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the PAL. ( )
c. If the PAL is exceeded, and the portion of the stray current or voltage attributable to an oFfarm
source does not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the PAL, the utility has no further testing or remediation obligations.()
d. Ifthe PAL is exceeded, and the portion ofthe stray ourrent or voltage attributable to an off-farm
source exceeds fifly percent (50o/o) of the PAL, the utility shall conduct remediation pursuant to Section 091 . Under
this condition, the forty-eight (48) hour recording of Test 2 may be reduced to no fewer than twenty-four (24) hours.()
e. For all testing conducted under these rules, the utility shall have a qualified analyst prepare a report
pursuantto Section 082. ( )
03. Suspended or Limited Testing. The utility may suspend a stray voltage investigation or conduct a
limited evaluation, as agreed between the utility and the dairy producer. ( )
072. PREPARATTON FORTESTTNG (RULE 72).
The person performing the tests shall perform the following: ( )
01. Remote Reference Grounding Rod. ( )
a. Remote reference grounding rod(s) shall be installed and penetrate moist soil to a depth of thirty
(30) inches. When practicable, remote reference rods shall be installed at least twenty-five (25) feet away from the
nearest underground conductive electrical equipment ofany type or at a distance equal to three (3) to four (4) times
the buried depth of any metallic structure connected to the service entrance neutral. The reference ground rod shall be
located not closer than twenty-five (25) feet from the centerline of a primary electrical conductor right-of-way. A
reference rod shall be located not closer than one hundred (100) feet from the edge ofa transmission line right-of-wav. ( )
b. All remote reference grounding rods shall be checked for "remoteness" prior to their use for tests or
measurements and if found to be insufficiently "remote," a new location for that reference ground rod shall be found
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and retested for remoteness. Remoteness of the reference ground shall be determined by measuring the voltage from
the transformer grounding electrode conductor to the remote reference ground. The resistance-to-earth of the
transformer grounding electrode shall be measured. The grounding electrode current shall be measured. Remoteness
is considered adequate if the measured voltage (transformer grounding conductor to reference ground, Vp) is within
twenty percent (20%) of the voltage calculated by multiplying the grounding electrode current by the grounding
electrode resistance-to-earth. ( )
c. If the transformer grounding electrode is within twenty-five (25) feet of other primary or secondarygrounding electrodes, this remoteness test shall be conducted at the first primary system grounding electrodb
upstream of the transformer that is greater than twenty-five (25) feet from other primary or secondary system
grounding electrodes. ( )
02. Inspecting the Transformer(s). Prior to testing, the utility transformer shall be inspected,
grounding elechode resistance measured, and any repairs necessary for safety be made and recorded. In the case ofa
customer-owned transformer, qualified personnel shall inspect the installation, measure grounding elechode
resistance, and make and record any repairs necessary for safety. Measurements that require contact with utility or
customer-owned primary wires or equipment shall be made by the utility or other qualified personnel. ( )
03. In-Line Ammeters. If in-line or series ammeters are used, they shall be installed under safe
conditions in accordance with the NESC and the NEC with the entire dairy system or the specific circuit to be testedde-energized. ( )
04. PreTest Documentation. ( )
r. All pre-test calibration requirements from Section 052 shall be completed and documented.()
b. A sketch or drawing ofthe dairy shall be prepared indicating: ( )
i. The location of the buildings; ( )
ii. Secondary electrical selvice panels and secondary feeder systems serving cow contact areas;
)
iii. Transformer(s) and cenhal distribution point; ( )
iv. Existing grounding electrodes (if known); ( )
v. The location ofall cow contact points to be tested; ( )
vi. All remote reference grounding rods; and ( )
vii. All primary and secondary neutral test points used in conjunction with the remote reference
grounding rod(s). ( )
c. A listing ofplanned test points shall be prepared using the applicable form prior to beginning each
test. Each test shall be listed separately and specific reference numbers shall be given to each planned test point.()
05. Safety. ( )
a.
significant
rules, then
eliminated.
If the service provider reasonably concludes that a dairy's noncompliance with the NEC poses a
and immediate safety hazard which prevents completion of any test or measurement required by these
the service provider's obligations to proceed under these rules shall be suspended until the hazard is()
At the discretion of the service provider conducting the test, livestock shall be removed from anyb.
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area where electrical equipment or wiring is examined or electrical measurements are taken. Testing may be
suspended ifthe presence ofcows or other animals creates a potential hazard to testing personnel. The locations of
electric fences and other electrified cow control devices shall be noted and de-energized where practical. ( )
073. TEST l - COW CONTACT TEST (RULE 73).
01. Purpose. This test is to determine the location(s), if any, where stray current or voltage exceeds the
PAL and to identifu the location(s) at which the cow contact voltage will be recorded in the forty-eight (48) hour test.()
02. Selection ofCow Contact Points. The selection ofcow contact points to be tested shall include a
sufficient number of locations reasonably likely to demonstrate the presence of stray voltage or current, if any.()
03. Conducting the Test. The voltage across the shunt resistor or current through the shunt resistor
shall be measured between cow contact points as shown in Figure l. The source resistance shall be calculated during
analysis for all cow contact points. ( )
a. When using a voltmeter to measure voltage between contact points where one (l) of those points is
the floor surface, the equipment shall be arranged as shown in Figures I and2, using a metal plate, which shall make
a high quality conductive contact with the ground or floor. If the service provider is unsure of having a high quality
conductive contact with the floor or ground, then the procedure described in Paragraph 073.03.c. shall be followed. If
necessary, corrosion shall be removed from the point(s) where test lead(s) make contact with metal equipment.()
b. When using an in-line milliammeter or a clamp-around milliammeter to measure current between
contact points and one (l) ofthose points is the floor surface or earth, the equipment shall be arranged as shown in
Figure 3, using a metal plate which shall make high quality conductive contact with the ground or floor. If the service
provider is unsure ofhaving a high quality conductive contact with the floor or ground, then the procedures described
in Paragraph 073.03.c. shall be followed. If necessary, corrosion shall be removed from the poin(s) where test lead(s)
make contact with metal equipment. ( )
c. A metal plate used to make an electrical contact with the earth or floor shall be of regular shape
(square, rectangular or round), and shall have a surface area equal to or greater than sixteen (16) square inches (4
inches x 4 inches or equivalent). Place a weight not less than twenty (20) pounds on the metal plate. This weight shall
be applied evenly across the metal plate and not to the adjacent concrete or earth. Place the metal plate a minimum
distance of twelve (12) inches from any metal equipment making contact with th€ floor or earth. ( )
i. Where the metal plate is to be placed on a concrete floor, the surface shall be flat. Clean the floor
surface with a stiffbrush to remove debris that may add excess resistance. Use water to clean the floor surface at the
point where the metal plate will be placed. Place a paper towel or similar material soaked in saltwater between the
metal plate and the concrete floor. ( )
ii. Where the metal plate is to be placed on the ground or earth surface, the surface shall be flat.
Remove any debris and add water to the area, if necessary to dampen the soil. The surface of the metal plate that will
make contact with the earth shall be clean and free of corrosion before use. Remove any corrosion, if necessary.()
04. Recording the Data. The person conducting this test shall record the location of, and measured
values at, each test point. At each cow contact location, an open circuit voltage reading (Voc) and a voltage with five
hundred (500) ohm nominal shunt resistor placed across the input to the meter (Vshunt) shall be taken. These
readings shall be taken with ten (10) seconds or less time between each reading. Altematively, a current measurement
(tshunt) may be taken in place ofthe voltage reading (Vshunt) . Data for these test points shall be recorded on the
form in Appendix l. ( )
05. Source Resistance Calculation. The source resistance(Rsource) shall be calculated for each cow
contact location measured and the value recorded in Appendix l. The following formulas shall be used to calculate
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source resistance.
Rsource - Voc -Vshunt x Rshunt
Vshunt
Voc - RshuntRsource =Ishunt ( )
074. TEST2 - FORTY-EIGHT HOURTEST(RULE 74).
01. Purpose. This test is to determine whether stray current or voltage exceeds the PAL at selected
location(s) over a forly-eight (48) hour period, subject to Subsection 074.06 and Paragraph 071.02.d. The test also
demonstrates whether the primary or secondary sides of the system have a specific impact on the recorded current or
voltage at specific times of day. ( )
02. Setup. A digitizing data recorder with averaging capability and capable ofdetecting and recording
transient deviations ofone-tenth (0.1) second or less in duration shall be used to record the following: ( )
a. Voltage from primary neutral at the transformer to remote reference ground, Vp. ( )
b. Voltage from secondary neutral in the service panel serving the area of the cow contact to remote
reference ground, Vs. ( )
c. Voltage drops (Vps) from primary neutral at the location of connection for Vp to secondary neutral
at the location of the connection for Vs. ( )
d. Cow contact current through (Icc) or voltage across a five hundred (500) ohm resistor at the high
voltage point(s) found in Test l, Vcc. ( )
03. Measurement Interval. The results of the forty-eight (48) hour test may be highly indicative of the
presence of stray voltage. A recording interval as high as ten (10) seconds may be used provided that transient
deviations ofvoltage or current ofone-tenth (0.1) second or less in duration ofvoltage or current are recorded to the
maximum ability ofthe instrument. ( )
04. Measurement at the Cow Contact Point(s). Measurements to the earth or concrete surface shall
be to a metal plate as described in Paragraph 073.03.c. When making measurements to metal objects, corrosion shall
be removed to obtain a low resistance connection. ( )
05. Recording the Data. Data gathered by the recording equipment during the forty-eight (48) hour
test including transients shall be downloaded and retained with the records of the investigation. In addition, the
steady-state data shall be summarized in the investigation report. The recorded data shall be made available to the
dairy producer or utility upon request. The person conducting this test shall record the location oi and measured
values at, each test point. The identification ofthe cow contact point shall be recorded on the form in Appendix 2.
Transient deviations shall be recorded on the supplemental data form, page 3 of 3 in Appendix 2. A plot of the voltage
versus time may be substituted for the recording of measured values in Appendix 2. ( )
06. Reduced Recording Period. If a qualified analyst concludes that remediation by the utility is
required under Paragraph 071 .02.d. prior to the completion of a forty-eight (48) hour recording period the recording
period may be reduced to no fewer than twenty-four (24) hours. ( )
075. TEST3 - PRIMARY PROFILE TEST (RULE 75).
01. Purpose. This test is to measure or calculate neutral-to-earth voltage (NEV) for a multi-grounded
distribution system. ( )
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02. Conducting the Test. The primary profile test requires concurrent measurement of the ground
electrode resistance and current at all primary system ground points within three quarters (3/4) of a mile on either side
of all primary service points serving the dairy, or to the end of the line if less than three quarters (3/4) of a mile.
Altematively, the voltage between a remote grounding rod and the primary ground point being tested may bemeasured. ( )
a. This test shall be conducted starting at one (l) end of the distribution system and working toward
the other end along the main primary distribution system. Figure 4 below illustrates the procedure. ( )
i. Where the dairy is served by a dedicated tap of less than one-half (l/2) mile in length from a
distribution line, the neutral-to-earth voltage shall be measured at each primary ground along the tap and along the
distribution line to a distance of three-quarters (3/4) of a mile in each direction from the point of the tap; or ( )
ii. Where a dairy is served by a dedicated tap that extends more than one-half (l/2) mile fiom the
dishibution line, the neutral-to-earth voltage shall be measured at each primary grounding electrode along the tap and
along the distribution line to a distance of one-half (1 /2) mile in each direction from the point of the tap. ( )
03. Recording the Data. The person conducting this test shall record the location of, and measured
values at, each test point. Data and calculation results forthese test points shall be recorded on the form inAppendix3. ( )
076. TEST 4 - SECONDARY NEUTRALVOLTAGE DROPTEST (RULE 76).
01. Purpose. This test is used to determine the impact of each secondary service on the neutral-to-earth
(NEV) and cow contact voltages on the dairy under controlled conditions. ( )
02. Conducting the Test. This test shall be performed for all service entrances. A prory load of known
characteristics (such as a resistive load like a one hundred twenty (120) volt, fifteen hundred (1,500) watt hairdryer) is
required for this test. The prory load must create a known and stable current and subsequent voltage drop for each
neutral serving a main panel, sub-panel or end-of-service area. All service entrances other than that being tested shall
be tumed "offo to perform this test. A diagram showing the connections and measurement points for this test is shown
in Figure 5. ( )
03. Data Collection. The following data shall be collected for each secondary neutral tested: ( )
a. Gauge and type of neutral wire. ( )
b. Length of neutral wire. ( )
c. Neutral current, Isn. ( )
d. Voltage drop (VDropM) between both ends of the secondary neutral being tested. ( )
e. Cow contact voltage (Vcc) or current (Icc) at the same points used in the forty-eight (48) hour test.()
f. Primary neutral at the transformer to reference ground voltage, Vp. ( )
C. Secondary neutral to reference ground voltage, Vs. ( )
04. Measurements. The three (3) voltages (Vcc, Vp and Vs) shall be measured with the proxy load"off'and "on." Calculated expected voltage drops(VDrop6) (see Appendix 4) shall be compared witli measured
voltage drops (VOropM) . If the measured and calculateil violtage diops differ significantly, -frnther investigation
shall be undertaken tb determine the source of additional voltage drop within the circuit. Neutral current shall be
measured and recorded with the proxy load on (Isn). ( )
05. Recording the Dats. Any person conducting this test shall record the location of, and measured
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IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
Stray Voltage Rules
Docket No. 31 -61 01 -2201
Proposed Rulemaking
values at, each test point. Data and calculation results for these test points shall be recorded on the form in Appendix4.()
077. TEST 5 -- THE LOAD BOX TEST (RULE 77).
01. Purpose. To determine the extent to which the primary system contributes to stray current or
voltage at cow contact points. For dairies with three (3) phase balanced primary service, the service provider shall
perform Steps One and Two in Paragraph 077.02.b. below. ( )
02. Conducting the Load Box Test. This test shall be performed at the same time of day as the time(s)
ofhighest cow contact voltage found in the fofty-eight (48) hour test. During this test, voltage and current shall be
measured and recorded at the points indicated in Figure 6. ( )
a. The load box test requires the recording of eight (8) data points during each of the five (5) test
steps. The eight (8) data points that shall be measured or calculated and recorded for each step are: ( )
i. Primary line to neutral voltage, Vpri . ( )
ii. Load Box Current, Ilb. ( )
iii. Voltage at load box connection to secondary system, Vlb. ( )
iv. Calculate transformer current Ip using Ip =Ilb x Vlb
)Vpri
v. Voltage from primary neutral at the transformer to remote reference ground rod, Vp. ( )
vi. Voltage from secondary neutral in the service panel serving the area of the cow contact to remote
reference ground rod, Vs. ( )
vii. Voltage from primary neutral at the transformer to secondary neutral at the service panel serving
the area ofcow contact, Vps. ( )
viii. Cow contact voltage (Vcc) or current (Icc) at the same point(s) used in the forty-eight (48) hourtest. ( )
b. Except for dairies with three (3) phase balanced primary service, the following five (5) test steps
shall each be conducted for at least two (2) minutes: ( )
i. Step One: The load box shall be de-energized, the dairy shall remain "onn". ( )
ii. Step Two: The load box shall be de-energized, the dairy shut "off,". ( )
iii. Step Three: The load box shall be set to half load, the dairy shut "ofl". ( )
iv. Step Four: The load box shall be set to full load, the dairy shut "off". ( )
v. Step Five: The load box shall be set to full load, the dairy shall be turned "on,''. ( )
03. Calculating the K Factor. The K factor is a calculated ratio (VccAy's). The K factor should be less
than one (l) because Vcc (cow contact voltage) should be less than Vs (the dairy ground to reference ground voltage).
Ifthe K factor is greaterthan one (1), then there is contribution to Vcc from sources other than Vs. ( )
04. Recording the Data. The person conducting this test shall record the location of, and measured
values at, each test point. Data and calculation results for these test points shall be recorded on the form in Appendix5. ( )
Idaho Administrative Bulletin Page223 July 6, 2022 -YoL22-7
IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
Stny Volbge Rules
Docket No. 31 -61 01 -2201
Proposed Rulemakinq
078. TEST 6 - STGNATURE TEST (RULE 78).
01. Purpose. This test is used to determine the contribution to stray current or voltage of individual
pieces of equipment operating on the dairy. The test is best performed when there is minimal farm electrical activity.()
02. Conducting the Signature Test. During this test, individual pieces of major current drawing
equipment shall be started and stopped. The effects ofsta(ing, operating, and stopping each piece ofequipment shall
be measured and recorded for a period ofoperation ofat least fifteen (15) seconds. The person conducting the test
shall identi! and record the equipment being tested and record the specific times that the equipment was started and
stopped. A digiti"ing data recorder with averaging capability shall be used to measure and record the required
electrical data. These measurements shall be taken at the same locations at the dairy where measurements were taken
forthe purpose ofthe load box test and forty-eight (48) hourtest. ( )
a. Voltage from primary neutral at the transformer to remote reference ground rod, Vp. ( )
b. Secondary neutral at the service panel serving the area ofcow contact to remote reference ground
voltage, Vs. ( )
c. Primary neutral voltage drop (Vps) from the location of connection for Vp to secondary neutral
voltage at the location of the connection for Vs. ( )
d. Cow contact voltage (Vcc) or current (Icc) at the preselected point. ( )
03. Recording the Data. All of the data gathered by the recording equipment during the signature test,
including transients shall be downloaded and retained with the records of the investigation. In addition, the steady
state data shall be summarized in the investigation report. The recorded data shall be made available to the dairy
producer or utility upon request. The location ofall test point(s) shall be recorded on the form in Appendix 6. A plot
of the voltage versus time may be substituted for the recording of measured values on Appendix 6. ( )
079. -- 080. (RESERVED)
ANALYSIS AND REPORTING THE DATA
Rules 8l through 90
081. ANALYZTNG THE COLLECTED DATA(RULE 81).
01. Cow Contact Points. Examine the data recorded for the forty-eight (48) hour test in Appendix 2
and determine the highest steady state value of cow contact voltage (Vcc) or cun€nt (Icc). Determine the value of
primary neutral to reference voltage (Vp) that was present for the highest cow contact value. Record these values on
the data sheet of Appendix 7. These values shall be identified as ootest cow contact voltage or current" ( Vcc +8hr or
Icc 48hr ) and "primary neutral to reference voltage at time of maximum cow contact voltage or current"
( Vp a8hr ). The three (3) data sets created from the values are: ( )
a. The primary to reference ground voltage and the cow contact voltage or current measured during
the load box test (Appendix 5) with the farm power "off'and the load box "off' shall be recorded on the data sheet of
Appendix 7 as Vp OFF and either Vss OFF or Icc OFF . ( )
b. The primary to reference ground voltage and the cow contact voltage or current measurcd with the
load box set at one-half (l/2) load shall be recorded on the data sheet of Appendix 7 as Vp U,UpLOAD and
either\,/ssHAlF LOAD or IcoHALFLOAD ( )
c. The primary to reference ground voltage and the cow contact voltage or current measured withload box at maximum shall be recorded on the data sheet of Appendix , asVpFULLLOAD.
eitherVssFLlLLLOAD or IccFULLLOAD r - -----'-(
the
and
)
02. Contributions to Stray Voltage or Current for Single Phase Dairies. The utility contribution to
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IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
Stray Volbse Rules
Docket No. 31 -61 01 -2201
Proposed Rulemaking
cow contact voltage or current shall be determined using the following formula. Compare the values determined to
the preventive action level (PAL).
Utility contribution to
cow contact voltage =
Vpas - Vpuerr
x (Vcc FULL - VcoHALF)*VccHALFVprutr - Vpuel,r
or
Utility contribution to
cow contact current =
Vp+t - Vpuer,r
VpFULL - VpHALF
x (lccrULl - IccHALF) +lccHALF
03. Contributiols to Stray Voltage or Current for Three Phase Dairies. The utility contribution to
cow contact voltage orcurrent for dairies with three (3) phase balanced load service, shall be determined by directly
using the results of the load box test results for Step I and Step 2 as specified in Paragraph 077.02.b. ( )
a. The Vcc measured during Step I of the load box with the load box "off'and the dairy "on" will be
the total Vcc. ( )
b. The Vcc measured during Step 2 of the load box test with the load box "of' and the dairy "of is
the contribution to Vcc from the utility, Vccutility. ( )
c.
- Vccutility
The contribution to Vcc by the dairy is the difference between Vcc and Vccutility, Vccdairy : Vcc()
(
082. REPORTING (RULE 82).
Within a reasonable period of time after completion of any tests required to be performed by the utility under these
rules, a qualified analyst shall prepare a written report. The report shall include a summary of the tests performed, a
copy ofthe sketch or drawing ofthe dairy prepared pursuant to Section 072, all ofthe data or results obtained from
the tests, and an analysis of the data or results obtained from the tests. If remediation was required under these rules,
the report shall specify the actions taken or to be taken. The utility shall provide a copy ofthe written report to the
dairy producer. ( )
0E3. -- 090. (RESERVED)
REMEDIAL ACTIONS AND COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS
Rules 9l through 999
091. REMEDTATTON (RULE 91).
01. Utility System. If the utility is required to conduct remediation, it shall commence such
remediation within five (5) business days. The utility shall diligently puniue to completion remedial procedures
which shall reduce, and are reasonably likely to sustain, that portion ofthe stray current or voltage attributable to the
utility's distribution system to a level equal to or less than fifty percent (50%) of the PAL. This may include
addressing other off-dairy sources. ( )
02. Other Dairies, Flrms and Industrial Sites. If a utility's contribution to stray voltage exceeds fifty
percent (50%) of the PAL an{ tle utility determines that another customer is a significant contributingsource of stray
voltage, the utility shall notify both the dairy and the other customer in writing. ( )
092. COMMTSSTON PROCEEDTNGS (RULE 92).
Filing with the Commission. All petitions seeking relief under Section 6l-805, Idaho Code, shall
Commission Secretary pursuant to Section 005. Petitions shall conform to IDAPA 31 .01 .01, Section
01.
be filed with the
Idaho Administrative Bulletin Prge225 July 6,2022 -Yol.22-7
tDAt{o paBLrc uTtuTlES coltnt ssrorv
S0av VoltaoeRuleg
Doeket rUo 3', -6101 -dlWl
Ptwggcdfuilermltdna
053. The potitioner shall file an original and ffve (5) copies ofthe potitim.
M3. IIIGURESAI{DAPPENDICES(RULE93)
All figrnes and appendicos to these rules can bo fomd ou the Commission websitc at www.puc.idaho.gov.
w4.-999. GESERVED)
()
()
Idaho Admhlstntfuc Bultotin PtgeXl,6 Jfu,ly 6,20in-Vd.2:2-7