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Electrical safety on the farm from high risk areas. If that’s not possible then try the following:
• Isolate the lines from machinery by raising or insulating them. • Use engineering controls such as geofencing (similar to those used for livestock) or electrical detection and alarm systems.
The most common electrical safety risks on Queensland farms are making contact with overhead powerlines, unsafe electrical equipment and not having safety switches installed. Overhead powerlines Working near powerlines can be fatal—touching them or straying into the exclusion zone around them can result in a serious electric shock. Sometimes overhead powerlines are difficult to see, even on a bright sunny day and more so in low light, rain, cloudy weather or at dawn or dusk. If you are working near overhead powerlines you must manage the risks. First try to eliminate the risk by arranging for the electricity to be switched off during work periods, changing the work activities or re-routing powerlines away
• Use administrative controls if none of the above are possible. These include safety procedures, training, safety observers, warning signs and visual indicators.
Safe use of portable generators Incorrect use of portable generators can cause serious injury and can damage your generator. When powering electrical equipment with a portable generator, make sure you: • only use a generator that complies with Australian Standards and read the manufacturer’s instructions before use • keep the generator in a safe and ventilated place so fumes can escape • use a good quality extension lead from the
Jason Daniels’ story surviving an electric shock from overhead powerlines Watch Jason’s story at WorkSafe.qld.gov.au
Farm Safety
• Substitute overhead powerlines for underground lines. This introduces a new risk, so talk to Energex, Ergon or Essential Energy to locate and mark the position of underground electricity cables and safe exclusion zones before you start digging. You can also contact Dial Before You Dig (www.1100.com.au) for advice.
