SafeWork SA has suspended the licences of three workers over safety breaches involving powerlines. 

The suspensions, which can last up to 12 months, were implemented after investigations by the safety authority. 

Two of the suspended workers were involved in an incident where a mobile crane collided with an 11kv high voltage powerline. 

This incident occurred during the installation of rainwater tanks at a residential property in Carey Gully on 22 January 2024. 

As a result, both the crane operator and the rigger have had their High Risk Work Licences suspended for six months. 

According to SafeWork SA, if a spotter had been present on site, the safe working distance of three metres could have been maintained, preventing the collision.

The third suspension involved a worker who erected scaffolding dangerously close to powerlines at a residential construction site in Windsor Gardens on 8 May 2024. 

The scaffold was set up one metre from an 11kv powerline and less than 30 centimetres from a low voltage 415v powerline. 

Consequently, this worker's High Risk Work Licence has been suspended for 12 months. 

The recommended safe working distance for scaffolding near these powerlines is three metres.

SafeWork SA's Executive Director, Glenn Farrell, said the cases show it is critical to adhere to safety regulations. 

“The inherent dangers of high risk work means it is of critical importance that people comply with work health and safety laws,” he said. 

“In suspending High Risk Work Licences, SafeWork SA is sending a clear signal we will not tolerate dangerous work practices.”

The agency has highlighted the significant risks associated with working near powerlines, noting that such work can be fatal if proper procedures are not followed.

“People granted a High Risk Work Licence have undergone specialist training and have no excuse for putting themselves or other people in danger,” Farell said.