Qld networks launch powerline safety campaign

Queensland network operators Ergon Energy Network and Energex are urging workers and drivers to Look Up and Live following an alarming number of contacts with powerlines in the state this year.

“It’s frightening that we are only a few months into the year and there’s been 175 potentially lethal cases of vehicles coming into contact with poles and wires on our networks,” Area Manager Chris Graham said.

“So many of these incidents could have been avoided with a bit more attention given by the driver of the vehicle or equipment.”

Graham said that sometimes people were so focused on a task they didn’t see the inherent dangers around them.

“It just takes a momentary lapse in concentration and suddenly you’re facing the risk of electrocution, so it’s important to take the time to assess the area you’re working in, especially the location of any power poles or lines,” he added.

Motor vehicle accidents made up almost a third of the contacts (58 incidents), while road transport accounted for 36 incidents and vegetation management 25 incidents. Earthmoving activities caused 18 incidents.

“Ergon Energy Network and Energex are continuing our safety campaign, asking people working around powerlines to Look Up and Live, and if you accidentally contact a power pole or wires, STAY in the vehicle if safe, CALL Triple Zero and WAIT for help,” Graham said.

“You really need to look out for powerlines when you’re working because poles and wires can blend into the surroundings, but the risk is real and if you ignore it the consequences can be devastating.”

The Look Up and Live map is an interactive geospatial map displaying powerline information for the areas covered by Energex, Ergon Energy, Endeavour Energy, SA Power Networks, Transgrid, Ausgrid, Jemena, AusNet, CitiPower, United Energy, Powercor, Powerlink and APA networks.

Image credit: iStock.com/vkp-australia