Your Guide to Overhead Powerlines Training

In the New South Wales (NSW) electrical supply industry (ESI), overhead powerlines training is essential for maintaining safety and compliance. Because working with or near live powerlines comes with significant risk, proper electrical safety training is essential. Whether you’re a lineworker, contractor, or crane and plant operator, overhead powerline training is a must.

What is overhead powerlines training?

Overhead powerlines training is a course designed to give workers the skills and knowledge needed to work safely in the vicinity of live electrical lines. In NSW, this training is mandatory for individuals working in the electrical supply industry. The course typically covers specific areas such as identifying hazards, implementing safe work practices, and understanding emergency response procedures.

Key aspects of the training include a focus on identifying and managing hazards, working within safety zones, and performing emergency rescues if needed. While being a mandatory requirement, this type of training (sometimes called an electrical spotter’s course) can genuinely save lives in a high-risk environment.

What does the training cover?

The crane and plant course offers a mixture of theoretical and hands-on training, giving ESI workers the skills required to work safely around live electrical apparatus. While the course design can vary depending on your existing skills, training usually covers these main components.

• Hazard recognition and risk management: Workers learn to identify the dangers associated with overhead powerlines, such as electrical arcing, falling objects, and environmental factors that can increase the risk. Understanding how to assess and remove these risks is crucial for maintaining a safe working environment.
• Safe work practices near live wires: Participants learn the correct methods and procedures for working safely in the proximity of live electrical networks. This includes maintaining safe distances, understanding safety zones, and correctly using personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Rescue and emergency procedures: In the event of an emergency, quick and effective response can save lives. The training covers procedures for rescuing colleagues, performing first aid, and following emergency protocols when working near overhead powerlines.
• Assessments: To ensure competency, participants undergo both practical exercises and written tests.

By the end of the course, participants should have a strong understanding of the risks involved, as well as the techniques necessary to work safely in the ESI.

Who needs this training course?

Who exactly needs overhead powerline training? Various professionals in the NSW electrical supply industry, such as electrical workers, lineworkers, and contractors who operate near live assets must complete this training. There are no electrical training prerequisites, as this training is targeted towards non-electrical workers who perform other duties in the ESI, such as operating cranes or other machinery.

Need more information on overhead powerlines training?

If you’d like to develop the skills and earn the accreditation required to work in the electrical supply industry, our Crane and Plant course is a great place to start. It’s essential training for anybody working in the vicinity of live network assets, and IAC Safety Services is your trusted training provider. Contact us today to learn more about overhead powerlines training.