Safe distances save lives
The electricity and gas network is essential and familiar infrastructure in our community, but if you get too close you could get hurt.
We’re lucky to have some of the lowest rates of serious network related safety incidents in the country, but it’s important that we all continue to stay aware and keep ourselves, loved ones, pets, equipment, vegetation, tools, machinery, furniture and belongings away from network infrastructure to stay safe. Depending on what electrical and gas infrastructure you’re close to, and what you’re doing, different safe distances apply.
Electricity network safe distances
Infrastructure | Safe distance | |
---|---|---|
Above ground | Underground | |
Overhead service lines | 100mm |
N/A |
Power poles |
1.5m |
N/A |
Low-voltage powerlines |
1.5m |
50cm |
Medium-voltage powerlines (11kV–22kV) |
2.0m |
50cm |
High-voltage powerlines (66–132kV) |
4.0m |
3.0m |
Mini-pillars |
1.5m |
N/A |
Pole substations |
1.5m |
N/A |
Substations |
50m |
N/A |
Fallen or sagging powerlines |
8.0m |
N/A |
Gas network safe distances
Infrastructure | Safe distance | |
---|---|---|
Above ground | Underground | |
Medium-pressure gas pipeline | N/A | 30cm |
Gas meters | 500mm | N/A |
Gas meter relief vent | 500mm | N/A |
Regulating stations | Perimeter fence | N/A |
Below are some of the most important aspects of energy network safety, click on a heading to learn more.