Spate of overhead wire contacts

In the past three weeks there have been 10 incidents, one on the north coast, three in the south of the state and six in the north.

All involved tractors driving into power poles or stay wires (the supporting line to a power pole), and most occurred when the tractor was being relocated.

Essential Energy urged farmers to remain alert and be aware of the location of overhead powerlines and power poles following the spike in incidents of machinery contacting the electricity network. The 10 state-wide incidents involved tractors and cotton module makers contacting power poles, causing damage to the electricity network and endangering the safety of the machinery operators. Essential Energy’s safety, human resources and environment general manager, David Nardi, said there had been an increase in sowing activity as farmers rush to plant crops. “Fortunately no one was injured in these incidents but there was extensive damage sustained to the machinery and electricity network,” said Mr Nardi. “These incidents highlight the need to remain vigilant, especially after long days in the field when visibility may be reduced and concentration can lapse.”

“Be aware of the height and voltage of overhead power lines in the work area and always transport machinery in the lowered position.

“Essential Energy encourages farmers and agricultural workers to pre-plan sowing and map out safe traffic paths between power poles to remove the potential for machinery to contact the network.

“We also recommend an onsite safety observer to monitor movements of machinery around powerlines,” Mr Nardi said.

“Powerlines brought down by machinery are not only a threat to public safety, but can also cause inconvenient power outages to nearby residents.” 

If machinery does contact overhead powerlines, contact Essential Energy immediately on 13 20 80.