Working safely alongside electgricity

If you are a tradesperson or a handyperson, try to be aware of the proximity of electricity and electrical infrastructure at all times. Following basic safety guidelines and respecting statutory safety requirements will help avoid injury.

 

Immediate danger

Exposed cables or conduits are dangerous; do not touch them and keep people clear. Damaged cables are an emergency; you should call 000 or Integral Energy on 131 003.

 

Overhead supply – Look up and live

Overhead wires and their point of attachment to a building should be noted carefully and contact should be avoided. Just because wires appear to be insulated does not mean they are safe to touch.

 

Covers or "tiger tails" placed on overhead wires act as a warning only. They may protect against accidental contact with low voltage supply but under no circumstances do they make wires safe to touch, especially high voltage lines.

 

Always assess a site for the safe movement of all types of machinery. An overhead supply means that extra care is required when moving ladders or long objects and operating tip trucks, elevated platforms, drilling or excavating machinery, backhoes etc.

 

Here are some safety tips:

 

• always look up and around to identity the location of any overhead powerlines
• if possible, have someone stand watch to ensure that no equipment comes close to the powerlines
• know the height of the powerlines and the maximum height of your machinery or equipment, and always maintain a clear distance between them
• always check overhead before you make a move
• if an incident with overhead powerlines does occur, stay with your equipment and contact Emergency immediately on 000.

 

If you are in doubt about whether you should be working near powerlines, please check with your local Council.

 

Underground supply – Dial Before You Dig

Always remember that the presence of an overhead electricity supply does not rule out the possibility of an underground supply.

 

Depth of cables can vary greatly and once the route of the service is determined, all excavation should be carried out with extreme caution.

 

Excavation around street lighting, padmount substations (large, usually green boxes) or overground boxes (small, usually green or cream boxes) must be avoided until you obtain guidance from your electricity supplier.

 

If in any doubt about digging, use the free Dial Before You Dig service by calling 1100.