Do You Need Training to Work Near Overhead Powerlines in NSW?
If your work takes you near overhead powerlines in New South Wales, you need to know this upfront: yes, you need training. These aren’t just power poles on the side of the road — they’re live network assets carrying thousands of volts. A moment’s inattention or a lack of basic awareness can lead to serious injury, property damage, and also death.
Whether you’re an electrician, crane operator, civil contractor, or spotter, working near powerlines is high-risk — and NSW law requires you to be trained and competent before stepping onto site.
In this article, we’ll explain when training is required, what kind of training applies, and who’s responsible for making sure you’re compliant.
When do training requirements apply?
In short, if you’re working within close proximity to overhead electrical assets, you must be trained in how to do so safely. That includes:
- Plant and crane operators
- ASP Level 1 and 2 electricians
- Spotters and safety observers
- Non-electrical civil contractors
- Traffic control crews
- Scaffolders and construction workers
Even if you’re not performing electrical work, if your duties bring you close to live overhead infrastructure — such as running cables, digging trenches, or lifting materials — you fall within the scope of these requirements.
The risks aren’t limited to direct contact. In many cases, electrical current can arc across the air if a person or object gets too close. That’s why SafeWork NSW and network authorities set strict approach distances and enforce mandatory training across a wide range of industries.
What kind of training do you need?
The exact training depends on your role, your access to the network, and the type of work you’re performing.
Most workers will need one or more of the following units:
- UETDREL006 — Work safely in the vicinity of live electrical apparatus as a non-electrical worker
(Previously known as “work near live electrical apparatus” or “powerline awareness”) - CPR and low voltage rescue (LVR) — required annually for many ASPs and plant operators
- ASP Level 2 authorisation training — required for electricians disconnecting, reconnecting, or metering near the network
- Crane and plant operator training with overhead powerline awareness components — for high-risk work involving machinery
These courses cover essential topics like recognising exclusion zones, using spotters, selecting the correct PPE, and also responding to emergency incidents.
At IAC Safety Services, we bundle many of these training units into our crane and plant course and ASP Level 2 program to ensure you’re fully compliant.
What happens if you work near powerlines without training?
If you or your workers are untrained and enter an exclusion zone — even accidentally — the consequences can certainly be severe:
- Injury or fatality due to electrical contact
- Prosecution under WHS legislation
- Fines and stop-work orders from SafeWork NSW
- Suspension of authorisation for ASPs
- Insurance issues if an incident occurs without compliance
Put simply, the risk isn’t worth it. Having the right training protects your life, your licence, and your livelihood.
Who’s responsible for ensuring training is completed?
Responsibility is certainly a shared between the employer and the individual worker. Employers must not allow untrained personnel to carry out work near electrical assets. Workers must also hold current, valid training certifications and keep them up to date.
If you’re unsure whether your training is still valid, IAC can help you review your records and recommend any required refresher courses.
Need to book your training?
At IAC Safety Services, we provide nationally recognised overhead powerline awareness training for electrical and non-electrical workers across NSW. Whether you’re a crane operator, ASP Level 2 electrician or part of a civil works team, our courses are tailored to the risks you face.
Contact us today to book your training and stay compliant, confident, and safe on site.
