Powerlink is encouraging Queenslanders to plan, look and act on worksites across the State this Electrical Safety Fortnight.
Powerline safety incidents are preventable and working too close to them can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
The PLAN.LOOK.ACT. framework guides conversations on worksites with three steps:
- Plan: identify overhead and underground powerlines before work begins, understand exclusion zones, and seek safety advice if work could occur near the electricity network.
- Look: look up, down and all around for powerlines, remain aware of them throughout the task, and always treat powerlines as energised.
- Act: implement effective controls to prevent people, vehicles, machinery and equipment entering exclusion zones, and review those controls if conditions change.
Powerlink Chief Executive Dr Seán Mc Goldrick said there’s no room for guess work when it comes to powerline safety.
“Behind every worker is a family, a group of friends, and a community who depend on them,” Dr Mc Goldrick said.
“A recent incident involving a crane operating within the exclusion zone of Powerlink's high-voltage network had the potential for catastrophic consequences.
“No injuries were reported but the outcome could have been very different.
"The incident severely damaged the crane, a truck, a nearby building and critical electrical infrastructure which highlights how serious the consequences can be when work activities occur too close to powerlines.”
"PLAN. LOOK. ACT. are three simple actions that can lead to safer outcomes, all starting with a conversation with your colleagues.
“Incidents are preventable when powerline risks are identified, discussed and managed before work begins.”
A Powerline Safety Conversation Guide is available on Powerlink’s website which supports conversations about working safely near overhead and underground powerlines.
The printable Powerline Safety Conversation Guide can be downloaded from powerlink.com.au/community-safety.
