We want to help make sure tradies and contractors working on or near our electricity network – and our employees, customers and the wider community – are safe around electricity.
On this page:
- Important info to help you stay safe when doing excavation work near underground power cables
- Useful links to relevant safety information on our website
- 'Look out below' video
- Resource kit for trades/businesses in Otago
Underground electricity cables could be right where you’re about to dig. That’s why planning is key to keep you, your crew, and our network safe. You could be seriously hurt or worse if you hit a cable. It could also cause power cuts or project delays.
Use the free BeforeUDig service for maps of underground cables, pipes and other utilities in
the area. If you’re unsure, arrange for scanning before penetrating the ground. If your work is within 4 metres of live electrical equipment, get a close approach consent from us.
As your local lines company, we’ll tell you the safe distances you can work and any safety measures to follow.
Be switched on to safety
- Plan ahead to keep everyone safe
- Use BeforeUDig to be aware of underground cables
- Apply for a close approach consent
Useful links
Watch this video to find out why you need to plan ahead before you break ground
Tradie resource kit
We want businesses around Otago to share the resources we've created to help keep everyone safe around our network. Download our resources below, or if you'd like a printed set of posters sent out to you, please email us at [email protected]