Understanding the Minimum Clearance Distance from Power Lines in NSW

The minimum safe working distance from electrical apparatus is a critical safety factor that must be considered when working with, near or around overhead power lines. This is because electrical injuries can happen if the minimum clearance distance rules are not followed correctly. As Australia constantly strives to improve workplace safety, the minimum clearance distance from power lines in NSW must be followed. That includes everybody on a worksite.

This article explains how to measure the minimum clearance distance and what accreditation is needed to work within this space.

What is the minimum safe working distance from powerlines in NSW?

There are specific guidelines to follow when working near powerlines or other charged electrical apparatus. This is known as the minimum safe clearance distance or the minimum safe distance. The distances vary depending on the type of electrical apparatus in the area (ordinary person zones are listed below):

• Up to and including 132,000 volts: 3 metres
• 132,000 volts to 330,000 volts: 6 metres
• Over 330,000 volts: 8 metres

This applies to all electrical apparatus and equipment, including overhead powerlines (also known as high-voltage lines). Regardless of whether you operate a crane in the electricity network or you drive a tipper truck on a worksite. Where high-voltage lines are present, you cannot work within these distances unless you are accredited to do so.

Why do the minimum clearance distance from power lines in NSW rules exist?

It might sound pretty obvious, but here are some of the reasons these rules are in place. Ultimately, it’s about ensuring the safety of all workers.

• The risk of electric shock is reduced by keeping people away from live parts.
• Fire risk is reduced by preventing flammable materials from coming into contact with live parts.
• The risk of damage to electrical equipment is reduced.

As you can see, these rules exist to keep workers safe, but there are some added benefits such as reducing damage to equipment. And while it’s never the main goal of any safety regulation, if you keep workers safe, you can minimise downtime caused by accidents and injury.

Which accreditation do you need?

The good news is, if you’re a qualified electrical worker with all of your other training up to date, you should certainly have been accredited to work in close proximity to electrical apparatus. However, if you’re a crane operator, site supervisor or hold any other position on a worksite that may require you to be within the minimum safe working distance, you’ll need training.

The best form of training is IAC’s Crane and Plant Electrical Safety Course. The technical course name is Work Safely in the Vicinity of Live Electrical Apparatus as a Non-electrical Worker (UETDREL006). With this accreditation, you’ll be authorised to work within the minimum clearance distance.

Understand the minimum clearance distance from power lines in NSW?

Now that you know about these regulations and why they exist, it’s time to ensure all of your workers are properly accredited. Contact IAC Safety Services today and ask us about our crane and plant electrical safety courses. Courses run for 2 days, or you can complete a refresher in 1 day. It’s the best way to keep your team safe. If you already know the course units you need, simply enrol online.