Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) is urging industry and the broader community, including those in Wyndham, to take better care when working around powerlines after an increase in dangerous incidents in 2022.
During 2022, ESV says it investigated 232 incidents where people or machinery have come into contact with powerlines, an increase on the 214 recorded in 2021.
Of the 232 incidents, 173 involved heavy machinery (cranes, tipper trucks), 31 related to an individual making direct contact and four involved farming equipment. Another 24 cases involved either scaffolding or construction works located too close to powerlines or people interfering with powerlines.
ESV chief executive Leanne Hughson said most incidents where people or machinery came into contact with powerlines were avoidable, simply by taking the time to understand potential risks before commencing work.
“The impact these incidents can have can be devastating, not just for the victim but also their families, co-workers and friends,” Ms Hughson said.
“The need to get work done quickly is no excuse for not taking the proper precautions to protect Victorian lives.
“It’s so easy to forget that the simple act of looking up before you start work, could save your life or the life of a co-worker.”
ESV’s Look Up and Live campaign aims to educate the community on the dangers of working around powerlines.
Look Up and Live also reminds Victorians that if a piece of machinery does hit powerlines and you are inside the vehicle, to stay inside.
If you’re not inside the vehicle, keep at least eight metres away, as you can still be shocked when approaching the vehicle.
Below are a few simple safety tips to avoid an incident occurring:
Understanding No Go Zones, rules and distances for safety clearances near overhead powerlines.
Ensure an ESV-registered spotter is on hand when working near overhead powerlines.
Display Look up and live stickers on any machinery or equipment, which is raised overhead.
Remember that powerlines are more difficult to see at dawn and dusk.
Contact with overhead powerlines does not need to occur before an incident occurs as electricity can arc/jump across air gaps.
Be extra aware in rural areas as overhead powerlines are predominantly single conductor lines that are difficult to see and easy to forget.
Details: esv.vic.gov.au/campaigns/look-up-and-live/
