Product Overview

This Spotter Duties For Overhead Dangers Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is designed to identify, control, and manage risks associated with working near overhead powerlines, structures, and other elevated hazards. It is a comprehensive document that consolidates multiple aspects of spotter responsibilities to support WHS compliance and safer management of high risk construction work around overhead dangers.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Working with a dedicated spotter to monitor overhead powerlines, structures, and other elevated hazards
• Establishing and maintaining safe approach distances to overhead powerlines and electrical infrastructure
• Communication protocols between spotters, plant operators, and ground workers, including use of agreed hand signals and radios
• Selection and positioning of spotters to ensure clear, unobstructed views of overhead hazards and plant movements
• Identifying and assessing overhead risks prior to commencing work, including mapping of powerlines, gantries, and building edges
• Monitoring mobile plant (e.g. cranes, EWP, tip trucks, excavators) operating near overhead services
• Implementing exclusion zones, barricades, and signage around overhead danger areas
• Managing work near live electrical installations and coordinating with the electricity supply authority where required
• Emergency response procedures in the event of contact with overhead powerlines or structures
• Environmental considerations such as wind, visibility, and weather that may affect overhead clearances and spotting effectiveness
• Pre-start briefings and toolbox talks to clarify spotter roles, responsibilities, and escalation pathways
• Inspection and verification of permits, plans, and service location information before work near overhead hazards

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for construction contractors, plant operators, electrical contractors, civil and infrastructure crews, and site supervisors who manage or undertake work near overhead powerlines and other overhead dangers using a spotter.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on controlling electrical risks, including work near overhead powerlines.
• Safe Work Australia – Construction Work Code of Practice: Requirements for planning and managing health and safety on construction sites.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Risk of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Controls for operating mobile plant near overhead structures and services.
• Safe Work Australia – Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination Code of Practice: Requirements for communication and consultation between spotters, operators, and PCBUs.
• AS/NZS 3000 Electrical Installations (Wiring Rules): General requirements for electrical safety relevant to work near electrical installations.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017