Work Near Overhead Power Lines SWMS

Product Overview

This SWMS covers planning and carrying out work near overhead power lines, from site inspection and exclusion zones through to demobilisation. It supports work planning and risk management by addressing line clearances, plant movements, materials, elevated access and changing site conditions.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes task-specific risk controls for:

• Plan the work scope and review the proposed work method
• Inspect overhead lines, the work area and ground conditions
• Confirm network authority conditions before work begins
• Set up exclusion zones to manage access and line-contact risks
• Brief the work team and appoint an observer
• Position plant and equipment for the work area
• Handle materials and loads near overhead lines
• Carry out work near overhead lines
• Perform elevated access work where required
• Respond to electrical contact incidents
• Monitor weather, clearances, barriers and work changes
• Demobilise plant and materials and complete sign-off

Who is this for?

For contractors, workers, supervisors and businesses carrying out work near overhead power lines.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

The template includes references relevant to the documented work, including:

• Applicable Commonwealth, state or territory WHS/OHS legislation and regulations, including duties to manage electrical risks, provide safe plant and systems of work, consult workers, prepare emergency arrangements and prepare/use/review SWMS for high risk construction work.
• Model Code of Practice: Work near overhead and underground electric lines — guidance only; confirm applicable jurisdictional requirements and electricity network operator rules before work.
• Model Code of Practice: Construction work — guidance on SWMS and high risk construction work.
• Model Code of Practice: Managing electrical risks in the workplace — guidance on electrical risk management.
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the risks of plant in the workplace — guidance on mobile plant controls.
• Model Code of Practice: Elevating work platforms — guidance on EWP work near overhead electric lines, consultation, exclusion zones and emergency planning.
• AS/NZS 3000 Electrical installations (Wiring Rules).
• AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations — Construction and demolition sites.
• AS 2550 series Cranes, hoists and winches — Safe use.
• AS/NZS 1418 series Cranes, hoists and winches.
• AS 2550.10 Cranes — Safe use — Mobile elevating work platforms.
• AS/NZS 1801 Occupational protective helmets.
• AS/NZS 2210.3 Personal protective equipment — Safety footwear.
• AS/NZS 4602.1 High visibility safety garments.
• AS/NZS 1337.1 Personal eye-protection.
• AS/NZS 1270 Acoustics — Hearing protectors.

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Standard SWMS Features (Click to Expand)

• Task-specific job steps, hazards and control measures
• Initial and residual risk ratings
• Assigned responsible persons for each job step
• Plant, equipment and PPE requirements where applicable
• Permits, qualifications and high-risk construction work details where applicable
• Worker consultation, sign-off and review sections