Working in close proximity to powerlines, above or below the ground, has its hazards. Each year, the workers in the cotton industry come in contact with electricity assets. This includes contact with poles, wires and pillar boxes by vehicles, the loads they are carrying or their associated plant. Contact can occur during harvesting, spraying, moving machinery and plant from one location to another or when irrigating.
When
January 2017
Who
Jason Davis, John Anderson, Mirco Cattabriga, Aaron Jones, Amanda Johnson, Steve McQueen
Before you start work
Before starting work, take the time to plan. Visit lookupandlive.com.au - our powerline planning map to identify powerline locations and make a plan to work safe.
Talk to the person in control of the property about any work areas which may be hazardous.
Know the location of overhead and underground powerlines, poles and stays on the property and their proximity to your work.
Complete a hazard assessment for each paddock and piece of machinery to be used.
Install visual markers in any areas where electrical hazards are identified prior to commencing work. Vision can be obstructed by machinery blind spots.
Monitor weather conditions closely as powerlines can sway in winds, sag as temperature increases and are difficult to see at dawn and dusk.
Be aware of reduced powerline heights resulting from damage, often indicated by uneven powerlines, excessive sag or slack stays.
Stay well clear of damaged powerlines and report them immediately by calling triple zero (000).
Ensure operators are aware of the height of their machinery in both stowed and working positions.• Monitor closely any machinery being operated to ensure required powerline exclusion zone clearances are maintained.
Ensure all farm workers know the emergency procedures applicable for the work being carried out and the relevant emergency contacts.
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