Who Requires Training to Work Near Power Lines?

Working near power lines presents serious risks, making proper training essential for safety and compliance. Whether you’re an electrician, construction worker, crane operator, or another industry professional, understanding electrical hazards and knowing how to work safely around live power lines is critical. In Australia, strict regulations require certain workers to complete training to work near power lines. This ensures they can operate safely and legally in these high-risk environments.

Industries that require training to work near power lines

Various industries involve tasks that bring workers close to power lines, each requiring specific training to ensure compliance with workplace safety laws. Some of the most affected sectors include:

• Electrical supply industry (ESI): Accredited Service Providers (ASPs), lineworkers, and electricians frequently work on or near live electrical networks. Their training ensures they can perform installations, repairs, and maintenance safely.
• Construction: Scaffolders, roofers, and plant operators often work at heights where power lines pose a serious risk. Understanding safe approach distances and electrical hazards is vital.
• Crane and plant operations: Workers operating cranes, EWPs (Elevating Work Platforms), and heavy machinery near power lines must undergo specific training to work near power lines to prevent accidental contact and electrocution.
• Tree trimming and arboriculture: Tree workers often work close to power lines when pruning or removing trees, requiring special training in electrical hazard identification and safety protocols.
• Telecommunications: Technicians installing or maintaining communication infrastructure near power lines need specialised training to reduce electrical risks.

Understanding the legal requirements

In NSW, SafeWork NSW and other regulatory bodies enforce strict rules about working near live electrical infrastructure. Workers must follow minimum approach distances, and those conducting high-risk tasks must hold the correct qualifications.

For example, UETDREL006 – Work Safely in the Vicinity of Live Electrical Apparatus as a Non-Electrical Worker is mandatory for many professionals who work near power lines but do not perform electrical work. Additionally, ASP workers must complete accredited training and refresher courses to maintain compliance when working on the electricity network.

Key training courses for working near power lines

You’ll find many training courses that give workers the skills to work safely where power lines are present. Some of the most relevant include:

• Crane and Plant Operator Training: Covers safe machinery operation near power lines, including risk assessment and exclusion zones.
• Low Voltage Rescue (LVR) Training: Essential for ESI workers, this course provides skills in rescuing a worker from live low-voltage electrical panels.
• ASP Training Pathways: Accredited Service Providers must complete ASP Level 1 and Level 2 courses to legally perform electrical supply industry work.
• UETDREL006 – Work Safely in the Vicinity of Live Electrical Apparatus: Mandatory for non-electrical workers who may be exposed to electrical risks.

Why ongoing training is essential

Regulations and safety practices are constantly evolving, making regular refresher training necessary. Even experienced workers must stay updated on best practices, new safety equipment, and regulatory changes. Failing to maintain compliance can result in fines, workplace accidents, and even loss of accreditation.

Need training to work near power lines?

IAC Safety Services offers convenient nationally recognised courses, including ASP training, crane and plant operator training, and electrical safety certifications. Whether you need to refresh your skills or gain new qualifications, we’ve got the expertise to help. Contact us today to book your training to work near power lines and ensure you’re fully compliant with NSW regulations.