Working Near the Electricity Network
As one of Australia’s largest electricity distribution providers, we recognise one of the biggest risks when it comes to electrical safety is people, agricultural and industrial machinery and equipment coming into contact with powerlines, power poles and the underground network.
Essential Energy prioritises safety around the electricity network – for our workers and the communities in which we operate. It is for this reason we provide awareness and education of these risks and encourage those working near or around the electricity network to take the steps to protect their safety and the safety of others.
Our free public safety webinars “Working Near the Electricity Network” are offered to encourage organisations and individuals to prioritise work safety, and take actions to reduce incidents, injuries and fatalities.
Register for our Electricity Safety Webinars
Join us for a series of free, live “Working Near the Electricity Network” webinars.
We’re hosting FREE webinars for those working in the industry to understand the risks associated with working near the electricity network, and how to do so safely to protect you, your workers and your business. Each session is 1 hour including a presentation of approx. 45 minutes, and an opportunity for a facilitated Q+A.
- Know the safe exclusion zones near overhead and underground electricity infrastructure
- Plan ahead and use the free tools available to identify what electricity assets are above and below the ground – before you start work
- Find out how to seek Safety Advice from Essential Energy’s specialists
- Learn what to do in the event of an incident with the electricity network
Emergency Services & Councils
Wednesday 25 February 2026
11.00am-12.00pm
Suitable for those working in emergency services and local government related industries such as first responders and those operating in the vicinity of overhead and underground electricity infrastructure during emergency situations.
Find out what to be aware of when working near the electricity network, how to identify potential hazards, and ways to minimise risks. Learn the safety exclusion zones and what to do in the event that a worker or member of the public has come into contact with the electricity network.
Agriculture sector
Wednesday 25 March 2026
11.00am-12.00pm
Do you live or work on the land? Suitable for those who are engaged in a range of agricultural-based activities, including operating heavy machinery, equipment and high loads.
Find out what to be aware of when working near the electricity network, how to identify potential hazards, and ways to minimise risks. Learn about required clearances, safety measures and equipment such as aerial markers, and know what to do in the event of an incident with the electricity network.
Building and Construction sector
Thursday 26 March 2026
11.00am-12.00pm
Do you work in building and construction? Whether you’re working below the ground or overhead, this session is for you.
Find out what to be aware of when working near the electricity network, how to identify potential hazards, and ways to minimise risks. Learn about clearances, easements, and where you may need to seek safety advice or approval from Essential Energy. Know what to do in the case of an incident with the electricity network.
Transport and High Loads
Wednesday 1 April 2026
11.00am-12.00pm
When it comes to the potential dangers of operating high loads around powerlines and other electricity network infrastructure, there are some key safety tips to keep in mind to help keep you and your workers safe on the road or worksite.
Find out how to plan ahead, access tools and resources available to you, be aware of the risks and control measures, understand your obligations for oversized vehicles, including required approvals from Essential Energy and regulators. Know what to do in the case of an incident with the electricity network.
Aviation
Thursday 30 April 2026
12.00pm-1.00pm
Powerlines can pose a safety risk for recreational and general aviation pilots involved in low level flying. Whether you’re involved in aerial application, recreational flying or other aerial activities, including piloting drones, there are some things you need to know before you fly.
Understand the potential risks and hazards, learn about the tools and resources available to you to plan ahead, know what to do if your aircraft or drone contacts the electricity network.
Safety Awareness Talks
Essential Energy’s Public Safety Specialist is available for workplace face-to-face electricity safety awareness talks targeted to a range of industries including the Agribusiness sector, Building and Construction, Emergency Services, Aviation and aerial applicators, Transport and High Loads.
To enquire about a safety presentation for your workplace, please submit a Request for Safety Advice.
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