Ergon Energy says it will take a tougher stance with businesses and operators of heavy machinery who are found to be repeatedly ignoring safety rules around power lines.
Ergon has also vowed to improve information sharing with Queensland’s Division of Work Place Health and Safety to ensure repeat offenders are identified and reported to authorities.
The warnings follow a second incident in successive days in the Toowoomba region which caused inconvenience to customers this morning.
The frequency of incidents has prompted Ergon to take a stronger stand.
“There are simple rules about clearance zones around the electricity network, including how close machinery is allowed to be to power lines,” General Manager Health, Safety and Environment John Cass said.
Ergon will actively target suspected repeat offenders – particularly among operators of heavy machinery.
Incidents involving the general public, agricultural and aviation sectors have reduced significantly in recent years in regional Queensland.
“But there have been some disturbing trends emerging in the past two years with heavy earthmoving machinery and in the building and construction-related industries,” Mr Cass said.
The three incidents that caused serious electrical injuries in regional Queensland in the 2011-12 financial year were all in the building and construction sector.
“We have anecdotal evidence suggesting rules about keeping clear of power lines are being ignored by a small number of operators and businesses in these sectors,” Mr Cass said.
“Our message to these people in 2013 is clear – be smart around any electrical assets, look up and live, or face serious consequences.
“These consequences can include prosecution under the Electricity Act, or worse if yourself, a workmate or a member of the public is hurt or killed.”
