Safe Work Practices > Electrical, Static Hazards & Overhead Clearances

Electrical current can arc to vehicles and equipment travelling within close proximity of high voltage power lines. The following are the required safe distances in any direction to be maintained from power lines:

Operating voltage between conductors of overhead power line	Safe limit of approach distance for persons and equipment
0-750 V Insulated or polyethylene covered conductors	300 mm
Above 750 V Insulated conductors	1.0 m
0-750 V Bare, un-insulated	1.0 m
750 V-40 kV	3.0 m
69 kV, 72 kV	4.6 m
73 kV and up	7.0 m

If these clearance distances cannot be maintained, notification must be given to the OH&S in writing before the commencement of work.

All power line crossings are presently marked at 7 metres from the line. When heavy equipment needs to work within the 7 metre safe limit, a standby person shall observe the equipment to ensure that the above safe limits are not exceeded. The standby person shall wear a blaze orange vest and carry an air horn to alert the equipment operator when approaching the safe limit. If the above safe limits cannot be maintained, Management shall contact the utility company and make arrangements to disconnect the power source or otherwise ensure the safety of all concerned.

•If power lines do make contact with a vehicle, tires will act as insulators. Do not attempt to get out of the vehicle. Your contact with both the vehicle and the ground will provide a path for the electrical current. If you must get out of the vehicle, jump clear of the vehicle.

•Power lines shall be marked “DANGER - POWER LINES” 25 metres (80 feet) on either side of the lines and at the line before work commences.

Safe Overhead Clearances

Safe Overhead Clearances