Energex and Ergon Energy Network are urging truck drivers and machinery operators to stay vigilant around overhead powerlines and other electrical infrastructure, following a spike in incidents.
In just 24 hours in May, four trucks struck power poles or contacted overhead powerlines in Queensland, disrupting the electricity supply to thousands of properties for many hours while emergency services responded, and crews repaired the damage.
Over the past 12 months, Energex and Ergon have recorded hundreds of incidents where heavy vehicles contacted the electricity network.
While there have been no reported injuries from the recent incidents, Area Manager Rick Madden warns it only takes a momentary lapse in concentration for a collision with live wires or fallen powerlines to result in serious injury or death.
“Our message to the trucking industry is clear: stay alert around electrical assets, especially when you’re moving high or wide loads,” Madden said.
“If your vehicle contacts overhead powerlines or any electrical equipment, remember our Stay, Call, Wait mantra. Stay in your vehicle, Call 000 for help, and Wait until emergency services and our crews arrive to make the site safe.”
Bystanders and well-meaning Good Samaritans need to stay at least 10 metres away from fallen powerlines, as they are also at risk of electrocution if they touch the vehicle or nearby equipment, said Madden.
He added that if a life-threatening emergency, such as fire forces the driver to exit the vehicle, they should open the door fully, jump clear – ensuring they do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time – and land with their feet together, avoiding any fallen powerlines.
Once clear, they should shuffle their feet until they are at least 10 metres away from the vehicle to minimise the risk of electric shock.
Drivers are also reminded that electrical current can compromise the chemical structure of the air within the truck’s tyres, making them prone to rupture or explosion.
For this reason, any vehicle involved in a powerline incident should not be driven for at least 24 hours.
“Your safety is our priority. If you’re in the transport industry, we urge you to review your safety procedures, brief your teams on safe work around powerlines, and always be aware of overhead hazards because the consequences of a single mistake can be catastrophic,” Madden said.