Identifying and Avoiding Overhead Power Line Hazards
The Problem
Every year, workers in New Zealand are seriously injured or killed due to accidental contact with overhead power lines. These hazards are often overlooked because power lines can seem distant or go unnoticed during work activities. The truth is that any contact with—or even proximity to—live overhead lines can result in fatal electrocution. Today, we’ll focus on recognising these hazards and implementing effective safety measures to prevent incidents.
Identify the Hazards
- Proximity Hazards: Workers or equipment unintentionally coming too close to energised lines.
- Contact Hazards: Direct contact with power lines by cranes, plant, scaffolding, tools, or materials.
- Environmental Factors: Poor visibility, windy weather, or vegetation obscuring power lines.
- Unmarked Power Lines: Lack of hazard identification during site planning or setup.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Pre-Job Hazard Assessment:
- Locate all overhead power lines before starting any task.
- Mark the location of power lines clearly and communicate their presence to all workers.
Maintain Safe Clearance Distances:
- Keep all people, plant, and equipment at least 4 metres away from overhead power lines, unless written consent is obtained from the power line owner.
- For high-voltage lines or where work must occur closer than 4 metres, consult with the utility provider and follow WorkSafe NZ’s “Safe distances” guidance.
De-Energise or Insulate Power Lines:
- Contact the electricity provider to discuss options for de-energising or insulating lines where close work is unavoidable.
- Use physical barriers or clear signage to prevent unintentional approach.
Operate Equipment Safely:
- Use non-conductive tools where possible.
- Assign trained spotters when operating cranes, EWPs, or other equipment near power lines.
Training and Communication:
- Ensure all workers receive training to recognise and respond to overhead line hazards.
- Make sure everyone on-site understands the emergency response procedures for electrical contact incidents.
Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear electrically insulated gloves and boots when working near electrical hazards.
- PPE must be properly rated and maintained for electrical risk.
Avoid High-Risk Situations:
- Do not store materials or park vehicles directly under power lines.
- Consider weather conditions like wind, which may shift tools, machinery, or conductors closer to lines.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A recent incident involved a worker operating a crane who unknowingly contacted a high-voltage overhead line while unloading material. The worker suffered fatal injuries from electrocution. This tragic event could have been avoided by observing minimum approach distances and assigning a spotter.
Employee Responsibilities
- Stay Alert: Be aware of overhead power lines at all times.
- Follow Procedures: Maintain clearance distances and use spotters when working near power lines.
- Report Hazards: Immediately report any unmarked or unprotected lines to your supervisor.
Employer Responsibilities
- Identify and Mark Hazards: Ensure all overhead power lines are identified in the site-specific risk assessment.
- Provide Training: Educate workers on the dangers of overhead power lines and how to avoid them.
- Coordinate with Utilities: Liaise with line owners or electricity providers for any work requiring proximity to power lines.
Discussion & Questions
- “What overhead line hazards have you encountered on-site?”
- “How do you ensure your equipment remains a safe distance from power lines?”
Encourage open discussion, raise awareness, and clarify any doubts around proximity and control measures.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to prioritising overhead power line safety. Starting today, all job sites will be assessed for power line hazards, properly marked, and discussed during pre-start meetings to ensure everyone on-site maintains safe distances.
Wrap-Up
Overhead power line incidents are entirely preventable. By staying aware, following safety protocols, and working as a team, we can eliminate the risk of accidental contact. Thank you for taking electrical safety seriously and helping protect everyone on site.
Standards Overview
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), PCBUs must ensure workers are not put at risk from electrical hazards. According to WorkSafe NZ:
- A minimum approach distance of 4 metres must be maintained from overhead power lines unless authorisation is obtained from the power line owner.
- Work near live lines must follow “Guide for Safe Working Distances Near Power Lines” and AS/NZS 4836: Safe working on or near low-voltage electrical installations.
- Employers must consult utility providers where work may bring people or equipment within unsafe distances.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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