01:36 pm, Wednesday 24 February, 2010

Worksafe has released a handbook in its website, which deals with the use of earthmoving equipment around overhead power lines.

Under the Occupational Health & Safety Regulations 2007, Working near overhead power lines is considered as a high-risk construction work.

The handbook gives pointers for employers and operators of earthmoving equipment. The guidelines have been culled from existing WorkSafe ‘No Go Zone’ publications.

The handbook includes information on how to implement work method statements using the machine’s design limits and the overhead power lines.

Under the Electrical Safety Act 1998 and the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, contractors and employers are required to meet safety duties or face prosecution.

Carrying out the guidelines in the handbook will help meet contractors and employers in meeting OHS requirements with on the risks involved with this work.

Report by Julia Alder - Do you have an OHS News Story - Let us know