Staying safe around powerlines
Serious injury or death can occur without touching a powerline, which is why it’s important to understand the risks and always stay away from powerlines. This includes both overhead and underground powerlines.
Understand the dangers
Electric shock and electrocution
Powerlines carry high voltage electricity and are often live – this means they have electricity flowing through them. Coming too close, touching a line or coming into contact with something that is touching a powerline can cause a severe electric shock or electrocution. Electricity can travel through metal, water, tools, vegetation and the ground.
Electricity can travel through the air
You don’t need to touch a powerline to be hurt. Electricity can “arc” or jump through the air if a person, tool or piece of equipment gets too close. This can result in serious burns, injuries or death.
Fallen or damaged powerlines
Powerlines that are on the ground or damaged may still be live and are extremely dangerous. The surrounding area, nearby fences, vehicles or even the ground itself can become energised. Always stay away from fallen and damaged powerlines and assume they are live.
Fire risk
Touching powerlines can cause sparks or electrical faults that ignite fires, especially in dry or windy conditions. This can put people, property and the wider community at risk.
