Roads and Powerlines

Roads and Powerlines

As a guide for arterial or major roads, the height of a conductor strand is 9 metres, under normal operating conditions (ie cool/non-windy conditions).

Keep in mind too, that modern machinery, shipping containers and recreational vessels are becoming increasingly larger.

Minimum working clearances are prescribed by law, depending on the type of activity being carried out.

Road traffic rules stipulate a 4.6 metre safety height limit for vehicles, which includes items such as whip aerials, grain chutes and other vehicle extensions.

As required under the Road Traffic Act, if your vehicle or an employee’s vehicle exceeds 4.6 metres when fully extended, or when it is absolutely necessary for people to work near powerlines, and/or on top of a vehicle, you must:

• Obtain the necessary exemptions from the Road Transport Authority; and

• Contact ElectraNet for advice before you start work, to ensure the potential for electrocution is removed.