Working near Power Lines

Question 1

If you are required to work closer than the prescribed safe work distance to power lines, what 3 things must you do?

Answer 1

1. Contact the relevant local power authority for exemption.
2. Have the power lines shut off (or insulated if not possible)
3. Use a spotter (depending on local regulations)

Question 2

What are the minimum safe distances from power lines in QLD?

Answer 2

3m - Up to 132kV (insulated)
6m - 132kv up to 330kv
8m - 330kv - 500kv

Question 3

Provide 2 examples of power line visual indicators.

Answer 3

1) Tiger Tails and Coloured Markers
2) Marker Balls or Flags
3) Safety, Warning and Danger Signs

Question 4

Who is the best person to contact to determine the correct voltage of overhead power lines?

Answer 4

Your local electrical authority.

Question 5

What should you do if your forklift touches power lines?

MUST KNOW THESE 6 STEPS

Answer 5

1) Warn people to stay away
2) Try to break contact with the power lines
3) Stay in machine if safe. Otherwise jump from forklift without touching the forklift and ground at the same time. Keep feet together and jump or shuffle away from the forklift until at least 8m away from it.
5) Report incident to supervisor, power company and safety regulator.
6) DO NOT use forklift again until it has been checked and returned to service.