Worksafe Victoria<\/p>\n
Be aware of what is above you
\nPowerlines are part of our landscape \u2013 sometimes we don\u2019t even notice they are there.<\/p>\n
With the sun in your eyes, trees in your line of vision or if you are watching something else, you may not see how close you are to powerlines.<\/p>\n
Accidental contact with powerlines can cause electrocution death or serious injury but electricity-related deaths are preventable.<\/p>\n
Always remember to look up and live. Follow our tips and procedures below to stay safe around powerlines.<\/p>\n
Take extra care if your work involves:<\/strong> What to do if you or someone else hits a powerline<\/strong> If you see someone hit a powerline, stay at least eight metres away and call 000.<\/p>\n Trucks and powerlines on farms<\/strong> Everyone involved in the delivery of materials has a duty of care to ensure the safety of themselves and others.<\/p>\n Order a free Farm safety sign or some Look up and Live stickers.<\/p>\n WorkSafe\u2019s farm safety campaign: Stop, Look up and Live<\/strong> Tips for reducing the risk with overhead powerlines include:<\/strong><\/p>\n Stack hay and other materials well away from powerlines.
\nUsing tall machinery, such as cranes or augers
\nDriving high vehicles
\nRaising the tipper tray of trucks
\nRaising farm equipment such as irrigation pipes overhead
\nClimbing on top of machinery or storage silos<\/p>\n
\nIf you\u2019re in a vehicle that hits or arcs a powerline, stay in the vehicle and call for help.<\/p>\n
\nTrucks and powerlines are a dangerous combination. Several Victorians have been killed in accidents involving trucks hitting powerlines in rural areas.<\/p>\n
\nCheck for powerlines before any work begins<\/p>\n
\nPark oversized machinery away from powerlines.
\nRethink your loading zones on the farm \u2013 you don\u2019t need to touch a powerline for it to arc.
\nTalk with workers and contractors about how to work safely around powerlines, and what to do if they hit a powerline.
\nRemember powerlines can sag in hot weather, which means there may be less distance between yourself and the powerlines than you think.<\/p>\n