Section 501.120  Meter and Equipment Handling Requirements

a)         A utility shall store all meters not in service in a secure, weather-protected environment and stack the meters in an upright position or in a manner recommended by the manufacturer. The weather-protected environment requirement does not apply to utility vehicles used to transport meters.

b)         A utility shall provide a secure means of transporting a meter prior to its installation and after its removal from service.

c)         A utility shall cap the inlet and outlet connections of a meter when the meter is not in service. Meter caps are not necessary when a meter is located within a utility's proving room or meter soaking room or after the meter has been tested and is waiting for repair.

d)         A utility shall protect all auxiliary and tertiary equipment prior to installation and after removal from service.

e)         If a utility drops or in any way damages a meter or auxiliary or tertiary equipment prior to installation, the utility shall not place that equipment into service until the utility establishes the proper operation and accuracy of the equipment.