Safety Risks to Consider When Operating Near Overhead Powerlines

Operating near overhead powerlines presents serious risks — not just to workers, but also to the public and the integrity of the electrical network. Whether you’re an experienced crane operator, an ASP Level 2 electrician, or part of a civil construction team, understanding these risks is critical to maintaining a safe worksite.

In this article, we’ll outline the key safety risks you need to be aware of when working near overhead powerlines and how proper training helps reduce the chance of incidents.

Risk of electrical contact

The most obvious and dangerous risk is direct contact between plant, machinery or tools and live powerlines. Even coming too close without making physical contact can result in electrical arcing — which can cause severe injury or fatality. This is why exclusion zones and safe approach distances are strictly enforced in the electrical supply industry.

Workers need to be trained to recognise these limits and understand how to maintain them, even in challenging work conditions. If you’re operating equipment such as cranes, EWPs or tipper trucks, you must ensure that booms, buckets or loads remain well outside the designated clearance zones.

Unintentional breaching of exclusion zones near overhead powerlines

Another common risk is unintentionally breaching safe approach distances due to poor site planning, lack of communication or inattention. Many incidents occur when operators are unaware of the proximity of powerlines or misjudge the height and movement of their equipment.

This is why pre-start risk assessments, clear site communication and trained spotters are essential when working near overhead powerlines. A momentary lapse in focus can result in serious injury or service disruption.

Equipment failure and uncontrolled movement

Mechanical failure, unstable ground conditions or weather events can all cause plant and equipment to shift unexpectedly. In high-risk areas, even a small loss of control can result in equipment entering a live exclusion zone.

Proper training — such as our crane and plant course — helps operators understand how to manage these risks and maintain safe control of machinery, even in difficult conditions.

Electrocution risks to ground workers

It’s not just operators at risk. If a crane or plant makes contact with live powerlines, electrical current can travel through the equipment and into the ground, creating a step-potential hazard. Ground workers in the immediate vicinity are also at risk of electrocution if they enter the affected area.

All workers on site need to be aware of the risks and know how to respond safely if a powerline contact incident occurs.

Inadequate emergency procedures

One of the biggest risks is not being prepared to respond effectively when something goes wrong. Many incidents escalate because workers do not know how to isolate power, rescue a colleague, or communicate with emergency services.

That’s why overhead powerline awareness and low voltage rescue training are essential components of working in the electrical supply industry.

Want to learn more about operating near overhead powerlines?

IAC Safety Services specialises in training for high-risk electrical environments. Our crane and plant and overhead powerlines courses are designed to equip workers with the skills and knowledge to identify and control risks when operating near live network assets. Contact us today to find out more.