Arrange engineered support
A qualified engineer or Accredited Service Provider must design the support system. It must keep the pole stable for the full project.
Working safely near electricity poles
Planning excavation or construction near an electricity pole? You may need temporary support to help keep the pole, workers and the community safe.
What are asset support and temporary pole holds?
Excavation can disturb the ground that supports an electricity pole. This may make the pole, wires or transformers unstable.
Asset support and temporary pole holds help keep a pole stable while nearby work is underway.
Keep a safe distance when digging
As a general guide, keep the same horizontal distance from the pole as the depth of the excavation.
Example: If the excavation is two metres deep, keep it at least two metres from the pole footing.
This is known as the 1:1 no-excavation zone. It helps protect the ground supporting the pole.
Check the site before work starts
You must arrange a site inspection before excavating near an electricity pole. The inspection will assess the risks and the condition of the pole footing.
You may also need a geotechnical engineering report.
Temporary pole holds
If work must take place close to a pole footing, we may provide a temporary pole hold. This is a short-term way to stabilise the pole while work is completed.
- We generally provide a temporary pole hold for up to one day
- A temporary pole hold is not suitable for long-term support
- Longer work may need an engineered shoring or support system
- Pole support is a non-contestable service and only Endeavour Energy can provide it
Long-term or complex excavation
For longer projects or major excavation near electricity assets, the contractor or developer must arrange the right support.
Contact us before work starts
You must tell us about the planned work and co-ordinate with us. We will assess possible impacts on the electricity network.
Consider relocating the asset
In some cases, supporting the pole may not be possible. You may need an Accredited Service Provider to arrange a permanent asset relocation.
Why this matters
Electricity poles are essential for public safety and reliable power. Excavation near a pole can damage its footing and cause it to fail.
This can lead to power outages, network damage and serious risks for workers and the community.
