Aurora Energy and Transend Networks’ in Tasmania have launched a joint ‘Look Up Look Out’ electrical safety campaign in time for the start of the harvest and irrigation season.
The campaign aims to raise awareness for farmers, machinery operators and the general community to stay safe and to always ‘Look Up Look Out’ in the vicinity of overhead powerlines.
The campaign comprises radio commercials and press advertisements appearing through December and January, and television commercials from January through to March. The companies are also preparing a direct mailout of information to excavation companies.
Aurora Energy’s Acting Chief Operations Officer – Distribution Business Warren Batchelor urged those people involved in high-risk occupations and recreational pursuits to take extra care when working near powerlines.
“Tip-truck and excavator operators, irrigation installers, farmers, forestry workers, anglers,hunters and four-wheel drive enthusiasts must take greater care when working or undertaking leisure activities near powerlines,” he said. “It’s vital to remember that machinery, vehicles or loads do not have to actually touch a powerline for fatal results.”
Mr Batchelor said equipment and vehicle operators should check the location of overhead wires before they start work and they should also know the exact height of their vehicles, equipment or machinery.
“Irrigation pipes, boom sprays, plant, machinery or other conductive materials should never by stored or located under powerlines,” he said.
“We also urge farmers to take care with travelling irrigators, as the jets of water have the potential to cause the powerlines to clash together, which in turn can result in the loss of power supply, system disturbances, or even fire if the powerlines fall to the ground.”
Aurora is also providing information on safe distances via its 24-hour-a-day Fault Centre on telephone 13 2004. Further information is available on Aurora’s website at www.auroraenergy.com.au or via its Fault Centre. A selection of farm gate signage,pamphlets, fridge magnets and posters is available by contacting Aurora on 62 373525.
