Safe distances for the operation of mobile plant near conductors
What does section five apply to?
Section five applies to any plant or equipment that has the potential to be close to power lines. This could include:
- Diggers / Excavators
- Cranes
- Forklifts
- Scissor lifts
- Elevated Work Platforms
- Hiabs
- Drilling Rigs
- Tree Trimming Equipment
Key distances for section five
The use of mobile plant within 4 meters of all power lines is restricted. The full extent of the mobile plant must be considered.
- Will my mobile plant be within 4 meters of any power lines at any time?
- Does my mobile plant have the potential to come within 4 meters of any power lines if used at its full extent?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you will require a close approach consent (CAC). Depending on the extent of your works, you may require additional approvals before a CAC can be issued.
Other important considerations
If your works will involve any excavation or earth works, you may have a close approach consent requirement under NZECP 34 Section 2. Click here to check this requirement.
If your works will involve a person being within 4 meters of any powerlines, you may have a close approach consent requirement under NZECP 34 Section 9. Click here to check this requirement.
Requesting a close approach consent appointment
Before you request an appointment
Any Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) should have appropriate safety documentation for any works being carried out. It is expected that this safety documentation contains risks and controls relating to using mobile plant near power lines. You should prepare these documents before arranging an appointment
Be prepared to provide information on the plan for the works, including the start time and duration of work and potential proximity to the power lines.
How to request an appointment
Get in touch | Call 0508 VECTOR at least 2 full days before you need the close approach consent. |
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Review | Our team will review your request and contact you to:
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What to expect at the appointment
You will need to ensure you have clear documentation for your planned works. The Vector Representative who attends the appointment will review the documentation before potentially issuing a close approach consent. If the documentation is not available on site, the Vector Representative may decline to issue a consent.
Close approach consents will be issued to the site supervisor or work team supervisor. It is expected that the site supervisor or work team supervisor ensures that the details of the issued consent are fully communicated, fully understood and accepted by everyone who works on the site to which the consent applies, including subcontractors and digger operators.