Once you know where all powerlines are located at your worksite, you need to establish exclusion zones. The size of an exclusion zone depends on:

• the competency and training of workers
• the voltage on the line
• whether or not the line is insulated.

Exclusion zones are the minimum safe distances workers and equipment must stay away from powerlines in all directions to avoid an electric shock.

*Note: The table above does not fully detail exclusion zone dimensions and other requirements.

If you or your workers cannot avoid working near an overhead or underground powerline, you must conduct a risk assessment and put suitable control measures into place:

• Ensure that neither the height nor reach of vehicles and equipment can cause any part of them to enter an exclusion zone.
• If possible, arrange for powerlines to be de-energised or relocated away from the work area before work starts.
• Use a safety observer on the ground to keep equipment out of the exclusion zone.
• Arrange for the electricity entity to install flags or indicators on overhead lines as visual markers, or use paint to mark the position of power poles and underground lines as well as the correct exclusion zone distance.