Electrical hazards associated with underground cables

This information bulletin describes a number of hazards that exist when working above, in proximity to, or exposing low voltage and high voltage underground cables.

These hazards may result in:

  • Electrocution
  • Damage to underground electrical assets
  • Disruption of the electricity supply, an essential service.

Which may result in:

  • Police, NT WorkSafe and Coronial Investigations
  • Criminal prosecution
  • Civil prosecution
  • Substantial project delays
  • Lost time injuries.

Work in proximity to underground cables without the written authority of the operator of the electricity infrastructure is a breach of Regulation 170 of the Electrical Safety Regulations 2024.

  • Place or maintain, or cause to be placed or maintained, a corrosive, abrasive, heavy or deleterious material or substance above an underground powerline.
  • Make an opening in the ground surface that may endanger an underground power line.
  • Remove, tamper with or cover any underground line marker.

Remember! You can’t see underground cables – Don't dig blind.

Before You Dig Australia

Website: www.byda.com.au

Power and Water Corporation

Telephone: 1800 245 092
Website: www.powerwater.com.au