RISK – Contact live overhead powerlines
Refer to AS2550.1 and the relevant State Codes of practice for working near overhead and underground electric lines.
Safe approach distances are also called safe operating distances, working distances, separation distances and exclusion zones in different states.
Within safe approach distances, there are authorised, instructed or spotter zones, and no-go zones. Trained and competent safety observers or spotters are required when working close to overhead lines.
Competency requirements differ between States.
Approach distances apply to:
- Any part of a crane or item of mobile plant
- Driving or operating a vehicle
- Traction overhead wiring for trains and trams
- Any load being moved, including the slings, chains and other lifting gear
- Any person working at heights e.g. from an MEWP, scaffold or other structure
- Metallic materials including scaffolding, roofing, ladders and pipes
- Non-conductive materials including timber, PVC pipes and guttering
- Any hand tools, hand control lines, equipment or other material held by a person
General Guide for working in the vicinity for of overhead and underground electric lines:
www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
Safe approach distances need to consider sag or swing of powerlines. Allowances must be made for:
- Sag and swing of overhead powerlines
- Inadvertent movement of excavation machinery and cranes
- Personnel and materials
Exclusion Zones – Working safely near powerlines. www.worksafe.qld.gov.au
Determining OHLE safe approach distances
You need to determine what approach distances and work zones apply for working in close proximity to OHLE in the area.
Safe approach distances depend on:
- The voltage of the service
- Whether the line is insulated or bare
- The level of competence, training and authorisation of the people carrying out the work
Safe approach distances and work zones vary in each State and Territory for people, plant and vehicles.
For further information, contact your State or Territory Electrical Supply Authority or Electricity Regulator.
OHLE Work Zones
There are three work zones
- Zone C – the no-go zone closest to OHLE where a permit to work from the asset owner is required
- Zone B - Surrounds the OHLE and is further away than zone C. Access to this area is permitted for authorised persons only with recognised training in overhead line electrical hazards
- Zone A - Furthest away from the OHLE and is for unauthorised persons who have not received training in overhead line electrical hazards.
Guide for Operating Crane and Mobile Plant Near Overhead Electric Lines. www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
Requirements when working in zones B or C
- A written safe system of work or SWMS
- Consultation with asset owners and electricity authorities
- Access permits if the asset owner requires this
- Written risk assessments
- Trained and authorised personnel to act as spotters.
Underground cables
Before any excavation, identify all underground cables and hazards in the area:
- Dial before you dig service for public areas
- Supply authorities including electrical, telecommunications, local government, water and gas authorities
- Asset owners if on private land
Requirements when working near underground cables
- Determine if underground services are near the worksite
- A written hazard and risk assessment of the work considering damage to services by digging tools and possible concealment of services
- Consultation with asset owners and electricity authorities
Related GMRs
2.2 Obtain all relevant service drawings and identify service that may impact the planned excavation
Related Procedures / Forms