Emergency 24 Hours
0800 768 241

Safety Around Electricity

Electricity is essential but can be dangerous—always treat it with caution and follow safety guidelines to protect yourself and others.

Excavation & Mobile Plant Safety

Before excavating near cables, confirm their location. Westpower offers a free underground cable location service—call 0800 248 344 (7 days' notice required).

For work near overhead lines, stay at least 4 meters away. If closer work is needed, obtain a Close Approach Permit. Email to controller@westpower.co.nz

When using mobile plant near power lines, place a "WARNING, KEEP CLEAR OF POWER LINES" notice in a visible location. Free labels are available from Westpower.

Keeping Children Safe Around Electricity

Young children are curious, so always supervise when electrical appliances are in use. A moment’s distraction can lead to accidents.

  • Use safety plugs in unused outlets, ensuring a firm fit.
  • Keep multi-boxes/power boards out of reach, preferably on a wall bracket. Use covers or buy ones with shutters and an RCD.
  • Store appliances like hairdryers out of reach when not in use.
  • Use short cords on kettles and toasters to prevent burns.
  • Keep metal objects away from outlets to prevent accidents.

Teach your children about electrical safety and always model safe behaviour.

Staying Safe Near Electrical Equipment Outdoors

Electricity seeks the quickest path to the ground, so touching objects near power lines can lead to fatal injuries.

  • Trees and power lines: Don’t let trees touch power lines. Always check before climbing.
  • Children’s safety: Keep kids away from electrical equipment like pillar boxes or transformers and remind them of outdoor dangers.
  • Look up before fishing, flying kites, or planes to avoid overhead lines.

Westpower Public Safety Management System (PSMS)

Westpower’s PSMS ensures safety by managing risks around its assets. It complies with NZS 7901:2008 to prevent harm to the public and damage to property.

Report hazards anytime at 0800 768 241 or via our online form.

Safety for Farmers

  • Keep four metres away from overhead power lines.
  • Avoid working near power lines or disconnect them if possible.
  • Plan machinery routes to stay clear of lines.
  • Handle metal pipes and fencing wire carefully around power lines.
  • Use safety switches (RCDs) to prevent injury.