Identification of hazards

Proximity of Power Lines - In the state of Victoria, Scaffold components must not be erected in a "No Go Zone" as defined by the Chief Electrical Officer. The "No Go Zone" extends 4 metres laterally and 5 metres vertically from any power line.

If you intend to erect scaffold in the vicinity of power lines, the following procedure should be followed.

• Notify the power authority before commencing work (and check on local regulations).
• Obtain written permission from the power authority.
• Do not commence work until a pre-start site/job meeting and risk assessment have been completed.

Contact your local state office of the Chief Electrical Officer for information on identifying hazards associated with the use of plant and equipment in the vicinity of a power supply.

Vehicular Traffic - If the scaffold is to be built in an area that is used by cars and other mobile machinery, the following precautions are recommended.

• Re-route the traffic and/or
• Provide guards or fenders and/or
• Assign a person to direct the traffic

Cranes - Scaffolds or persons within the operational radius or line of travel of a crane are at risk from suspended loads and/or the crane itself. In such circumstances the following precautions are recommended.

• Make sure the scaffold does not have any unnecessary protuberances such as oversize tie tubes or standards.
• Evacuate the scaffold during crane operations.
• Develop an operations plan for the crane crew for work carried out in the vicinity of the scaffold.

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