Recently there was a helicopter incident along the Yuleba North to Eurombah Transmission Line where a helicopter came into contact with the Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) on top of a transmission tower while mustering cattle.
The contact with the wire resulted in the helicopter pilot performing an emergency landing.
“The helicopter pilot was seriously injured and was airlifted by CareFlight helicopter to hospital,” said Powerlink’s Group Manager Health and Safety Craig McManus.
“We are glad to hear that the pilot is on the mend and we wish him a full recovery.
“This incident highlights the importance of increased safety and awareness for helicopter mustering contractors flying near transmission lines.
“Powerlink is committed to safety and we use our best endeavours to provide a safe working environment for our employees, contractors and the community.
“To further inform landholders and helicopter mustering contractors in the North West Surat, Powerlink will be providing an information package detailing important safety tips when flying low near transmission lines.
“The information package will provide safety tips specific to aerial mustering such as pre-flight reconnaissance to identify hazards, conducting a specific risk assessment which includes electrical safety hazards, and crossing over transmission lines at towers rather than mid-span,” Craig said.
Landholder Relations Manager Murray Abel said it was vital that helicopter mustering contractors familiarised themselves with transmission line and tower locations before commencing work.
“Powerlink is committed to providing a safe working environment for the community. We ask those who are using helicopters in the area to ensure they know the location of our infrastructure and plan their flight accordingly,” Murray said.
