Minimum safe approach distance limits for persons working near exposed live parts
What does section nine apply to?
Section nine applies to any person that has the potential to be close to power lines. These scenarios could include:
• A person using a scissor lift
• A person working on an elevated work platform
• A person using a ladder near powerlines
• A person completing tree works
Key distances for section nine
Persons are not permitted to be within 4 meters of power lines without consent. The full reach of the person, including any held tools, must be considered.
• Will persons be within 4 meters of any power lines at any time?
• Will any tools or equipment being used by persons have the potential to come within 4 meters of any power lines at any time?
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 mobile plant being within four meters of any power lines, you may have a close approach consent requirement under NZECP 34 Section 5. Click here to check this requirement.
If your works involve persons working on a scaffold within four meters of any power lines, you may have a close approach consent requirement under NZECP 34 Section 3. 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 persons working 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 two 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.