Background
Construction contractors, riggers, dogmen, scaffolders, crane operators, concrete boom pump operators, workers using elevated work platforms and other workers should note that tiger tails on overhead electrical power lines do not protect people from the risk of electrocution or electric shock.
Tiger tails may be used to provide a useful visual indication to people working in the area of overhead electrical power lines. They do not provide protection against mechanical interference nor provide electrical protection from electrical hazards.
Recommendations
The preferred option when work is carried out in close proximity to power lines is to have the power lines de-energised or re-directed away from the work area. Whenever there is a risk of workers being exposed to electrical hazards from powerlines you must consult with the local electricity network operator to determine the appropriate safeguards.
In every case, there is an obligation under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001, to carry out a written risk assessment in consultation with the local electricity supplier and with those involved in the work activity.
Note: The recommendations listed above do not apply to work carried out by electrical personnel working under the Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2002.
Further advice
For general advice on safeguards when working near powerlines contact your local electricity network operator:
Energy Australia: 13 15 25
Integral Energy: 13 10 81
Country Energy: 13 23 56
Australian Inland: 1300 655 909
For further information on scaffolding, refer to Australian Standard, AS 4576 : 1995. The standard provides guidance on the erection, use and dismantling of scaffolding near powerlines. It can be purchased from Standards Australia at www.standards.com.au.
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, 2001 and other relevant codes of practice and guidance material can be viewed and downloaded from WorkCover’s website, www.workcover.nsw.gov.au.
The WorkCover Code of practice, Moving Plant on Construction Sites will assist employers in deciding appropriate measures to prevent risks to workers and other people on construction sites where moving plant is used, including electrical hazards created by overhead power lines. Cat No: 1310.
The WorkCover publication, Identification Tool for Electrical Hazards On-site is a tool that has been designed to assist in the identification of occupational health and safety hazards in relation to electrical hazards on a construction site. Cat No: 979.
Further information
Further information about any of the above WorkCover information products can be obtained by contacting your local WorkCover Office or the WorkCover Information Centre on 13 10 50.
Some of the information used in this safety alert has been adapted from a safety alert issued by WorkSafe-Victoria.