Licences suspended after mobile crane strikes powerline

Two workers have had their High Risk Work Licences suspended after their mobile crane struck a powerline in South Australia earlier this year.

Two workers have had their High Risk Work Licences suspended after their mobile crane struck a powerline in South Australia earlier this year. 

It’s understood the crane’s operator and rigger were installing rainwater tanks at a Carey Gully residential property back in January when they struck the 11kv powerline. 

A SafeWork SA investigation of the incident discovered that the pair failed to maintain a safe working distance of at least three metres from the powerlines and also did not have a spotter on site. 

They have both had their High Risk Work Licences suspended for six months as a result. 

Powerlines and machinery can equal dangerous consequences

This is just one of a spate of similar incidents that have occurred in South Australia so far this year, prompting SafeWork SA to issue a reminder about the importance of implementing safe work practices while working near overhead powerlines. 

Here at Ideagen Plant Assessor, we have also seen these incidents happen far too often over the years. Thankfully though, there are some simple steps you can take during the risk assessment process to reduce the risk of striking powerlines and the potential for electrocution. 

• Quantify the hazard: determine the powerline voltage, question the need to work in the area, identify the powerline owner and request guidance. 

• Assess the risk: conduct a comprehensive risk assessment that evaluates the risks of the site, conditions and task. 

• Eliminate or isolate the hazard: contact the energy network operator to de-energise the lines. 

• Implement engineering controls: use a machine that cannot reach the minimum approach distance, utilise interlocks. 

• Implement administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE): develop a safe work method statement (SWMS) for the task. Be sure to include controls such as tiger tails, exclusion zones, warning signals and worker training. 

For further information on reducing the risks of operating machinery in the vicinity of overhead powerlines, see our other guidance; Plant and powerlines and Managing the risk of working near powerlines. 

Want to learn more about the risks of operating machinery around powerlines?

The team at Ideagen Plant Assessor holds in depth expertise on machinery hazards and safety, including how to reduce risks when operating around powerlines. Simply contact us on 1300 728 852 or info@assessor.com.au to find out more information.