The Scaffolding Association Australia (SAA) is a supporter of the Look Up and Live message.
Always take care and assume overhead powerlines are live and potentially dangerous. Planning is crucial to working safely around power lines.
All scaffolders working near powerlines should initially refer to their local State Scaffold Code of practice as well as be aware of Section 3.2 Proximity to Powerlines in AS 4576:2020 Guidelines for Scaffolding which outlines the following:
- Powerlines are a potential hazard to persons erecting, working from or in the vicinity of a scaffold.
- Contact the electricity supply authority for information before erecting, using and dismantling scaffolding in close proximity to powerlines.
- For voltages of 11kV or less “close proximity” is typically a minimum clearance of 4m between powerlines and the adjacent scaffolding but may vary depending on electricity supply authority requirements.
- The fitting of non-conductive materials on the outer face of the scaffold adjacent to powerlines may be required by the electricity supply authority.
- Metallic fixings should not protrude through the face of the non-conductive material towards powerlines.
The Look up and Live app provides information on overhead powerlines, including their locations, voltages, and who owns them, making it easy for you to find the correct authority to contact whilst planning your scaffolding work before you attend the site.
The Look up and Live app is available on the Apple App store or Google Play store.
