Safe operation of concrete pumping equipment around overhead powerlines

First published: July 2008

Background
Obligations for safe use
Other considerations
Further information

Following a fatal injury to a concrete pump operator on a construction site in North Queensland, WHSQ is alerting concrete pumping operators to the risks of working around overhead powerlines, and the importance of preventing or minimising these risks.

Background

A concrete pump operator was fatally injured in North Queensland, when the discharge rubber hose of a concrete pumping boom came into contact with overhead powerlines. The concrete truck delivery driver also received an electric shock at the same time as the discharge chute of his truck was contacting the receiving hopper of the concrete pump.

Obligations for safe use

Employers or self-employed persons have an obligation to ensure that people or equipment, such as concrete pumping equipment, do not come into contact with powerlines, or breach specified exclusion zone distances. Before work starts, there are ways to prevent or minimise the risk of coming into contact with overhead powerlines, which include:

Conduct daily pre-operational checks on all the equipment, including the hose, before starting work.
Locate any nearby powerlines and consider the height and reach of equipment and how it will be used – use a safe system of work.
Exclusion zones stipulate the minimum safe distance from live powerlines for people and machinery. Exclusion zone distances are three metres for up to 132kV and six or eight metres for higher voltages – exceeding these distances is a simple way to minimise risk.
Allow for sway (in windy conditions) and sag (when the temperature fluctuates) of the overhead powerlines.
Consider setting up equipment in the optimal location for both safe use/operation of the equipment and for the vantage of the safety observer.
Keep pipes parallel to the ground when unloading and setting-up concrete pumping pipes.
Nominate a safety observer to watch the boom and warn of danger before equipment encroaches into designated exclusion zone.
The nominated safety observer must be competent and able to communicate with the concrete pump operator at all times.
Consult with the person in control of the powerlines if there is a reasonable likelihood of people or equipment breaching an exclusion zone or contacting the powerlines.
Use tiger tails to make the powerlines more visible – however, be aware they do not insulate the powerlines.

Other considerations

Use limiting or warning devices to prevent equipment entering exclusion zones.
Earth concrete pumping booms to reduce risk if contact with powerlines occurs.

Further information

More information about managing electrical risk around exclusion zones can be found in the Code of Practice – Working Near Exposed Live Parts 2002, and about concrete pumping in the Concrete Pumping Code of Practice 2005.

For more information about electrical safety and workplace health and safety contact:

Electrical Safety Office Infoline 1300 650 662
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland Infoline 1300 369 915