Working near powerlines
Working near powerlines can be extremely dangerous. Every year serious electrical accidents occur when safe work practices are not followed. To protect yourself and others against injury, it is important to plan ahead and ensure that all work can be carried out safely before you begin.
These pages outline the steps that must be taken before work near overhead and underground powerlines can commence.
These pages also provide safety information that will ensure you are safe whilst working around electricity infrastructure.
Planning to work near overhead or underground powerlines?
It is the responsibility of the site owner, company or contractor to ensure that work near overhead or underground powerlines can be carried out safely and that no person, material or equipment involved in the performance of the work enters the 'danger zone' around powerlines at any time. There are serious penalties for breaching this important safety regulation.
Work near powerlines and other electrical installations must be well planned to ensure:
- Compliance with WorkSafe and electrical clearance requirements during site works
- Adequate separation between the completed work and the adjacent line
Western Power will provide assistance in determining whether there will be adequate separation between the works and any adjacent powerlines.
- Requesting assistance to work in the vicinity of powerlines
- Building and structural clearances near powerlines – see WA Distribution Connections Manual Section 6 General Rules
- Transporting oversized loads
Contact us
For assistance please contact the Work in Vicinity Administrator on 13 10 87 or workinvicinity@westernpower.com.au or fax to 9225 2742.
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