FREE Forklift Safety Tip no: 15
Changes To The Laws Regarding Working Near Powerlines & Electrical Hazards In NSW
There where changes to the laws regarding the use of forklifts near powerlines that many people still aren’t aware of. The old safe distances from powerlines were 2m from domestic power and 6m from high voltage transmission lines.
Now, the current distances are as follow:
3m for voltage up to 132,000V
6m for voltages above 132,000V
8m for voltages above 330,000V
Operators are supposed to know where power sources are located in your workplace as well as how far away they must keep their forklift.
Here is the standard procedure to follow when an operator contacts electricity.
If you make contact with power lines you should:
- Warn other people to stay clear and not to touch the forklift
- Try and break contact with the power lines by moving the forklift if possible
- Remain in or on the forklift until informed that the conditions are safe
- If you must leave the forklift, jump clear ensuring that you don’t contact the forklift and the ground at the same time
Do your operators know where electrical hazards can be found on your worksite and how to safely operate around them?
If you have any question relating to this or any other matter, please feel free to call me on 1300 799 112 or email me nathan@ausforklifttraining.com.au