Safety With Overhead Wires

Vehicles and mobile plant working near overhead power lines can create hazards if they should come into contact with lines. MainPower requires any mobile plant working near power lines to meet the requirements of section 5 of the New Zealand Electrical Code for Practice for Electrical Safe Distances 2001 (NZECP 34:2001). These rules are a requirement to ensure the safety of the general public and those working near power lines.

The key rule is Section 5.2.1 which reads, “The distance between any live overhead electric line and any part of any mobile plant or load carried shall be AT LEAST 4.0 METRES, unless the operator has received written consent from the overhead electric line owner allowing a reduced distance.”

• Applying for Close Working Permit
  Contact the MainPower Control Centre either by fax (03) 313 4300 or phone (03) 311 8349.

• Applying for Movement of an Over-Height Load (within MainPower distribution area)
  Please complete an Over-Height Load Application Form 
  Fax the completed form to the MainPower Control Centre 03 313 4300.