Guidelines operating in the vicinity of extra high voltage transmission assets

SP-Ausnet has sought my assistance in reinforcing these Guidelines to CFA members after a number of unplanned and unannounced visits in the vicinity on these assets recently.

More pertinently, as the Summer Period approaches and fire prevention and response activities increase it is opportune to reinforce these simple guidelines with all members, especially the

• 4m total height limit and
• the easy availability of the 24/7 Emergency phone lines

These should be read in conjunction with SOP 11.04 Power Lines and Electrical Conductors – Working Near

Please find attached SP AusNet’s Guidelines For The Safety Of Fire And Emergency Services Operating In The Vicinity Of Extra High Voltage Transmission Assets

Any emergency situation within a terminal station and/or transmission line easements present unique electrical hazards, and demand more strict precautions.

In short these clearly recommend
Do not Enter, touch or go near, any doubt contact SP AusNet. On their 24/7 Emergency numbers (03) 9420 2103 or 9420 2104

I recommend distribution to

• All areas which deal with the specifically listed premises – see Attachment A
• This list has been cleared through CIPU
• Any other members / Brigades / Groups which may have cause to either
• enter these Assets or
• work within their vicinity

In my experience this may apply to

• Fires in easements, stolen / dumped cars, etc
• Fires in or threatening easements especially, but not limited to, the Fire Danger Period
• Fires / Incidents within Terminal Stations

In addition to Section 3.5 – Safety Precautions, it is worth reinforcing these points.

The SP AusNet Emergency numbers are staffed 24 / 7, (03) 9420 2103 or 9420 2104, and must be alerted should any access be expected, planned or probable.

Terminal Stations

• …. personnel are strongly advised not to enter a terminal station until an authorised SP AusNet representative is on site to provide guidance and advice for safe access
• If entering a terminal station without an on-site authorised SP AusNet representative, Fire Control Agency personnel must only drive on defined roadways using the shortest path from the main gate to the Control Building where the main fire indicator board is located. Do not proceed to other locations on site, including any sub fire indicator boards.
• Fire Control Agency personnel must not enter any building beyond the main fire indicator board without the permission of an authorised SP AusNet representative.
• Vehicles entering SP AusNet terminal stations must be less than 4 metres in height, including communication aerials.
• Personnel must not leave ground level without the permission of an authorised SP AusNet Representative, and
• must not carry anything above shoulder height while in a terminal station.
• Fire Control Agencies must not attempt to extinguish a fire within a terminal station without first obtaining the permission of an authorised SP AusNet representative who will confirm whether the equipment is safe prior to any action being taken.

Transmission Line Easements

• A Fire Control Agency is not to enter any electrical transmission line easement without notifying the SP AusNet Transmission Operations Centre, telephone: (03) 9420 2103 or (03) 9420 2104
• This number must be advised
• for any fire on an easement
• a fire occurs within 5 kilometres of an easement; and
• before commencing fire fighting within SP AusNet easements.
• No vehicle or equipment greater than 4 metres in height is permitted under transmission lines, including communication aerials.

Regards Peter J Lucas
Fire Services Liaison Officer
Victoria Police
Counter Terrorism Co-ordination Unit and Emergency Management Department