Semi trailer transporting high load machinery

Vehicles with high loads

If you’re transporting a load that’s more than 4.6m high under overhead powerlines, you’ll need to submit a notification to obtain our written authorisation.

We’ll assess your notification to ensure compliance with the electrical exclusion zones documented in the Electrical Safety Code of Practice 2020.

Diagram showing exclusion zone of 4.6m required when transporting high loads

To apply for your permit:

  1. Download a Notification to Transport High Loads form (PDF 120.6 kb)
  2. Email your completed form to highloadescort@energex.com.au

Once we’ve reviewed your submission, we’ll issue an authorisation to travel. You must have this document before you can transport a high load. It is recommended that you keep a copy of the authorisation with you while transporting the high load.

You must have our written approval to travel before transporting a high load.

Please also refer to:

Safe work practices for transporting high loads

Understanding step and touch potential

Step potential is the voltage between the feet of a person standing near an energized grounded object. Touch potential is the voltage between any two points on a person’s body, hand to hand, shoulder to back, hand to foot etc. An example is if an overhead conductor falls onto a car and a person touches the car, current could pass through the person to the ground.

An easy way to understand step potential is to imagine a stone being dropped into a pool of still water. When the stone hits the water, it forms ripples that spread out from the point where the stone hit. The ripples are stronger at the centre, and gradually become weaker the further they travel.

The same thing happens with electricity if a powerline falls on the ground, or machinery or a vehicle contacts a powerline.

If you’re in a vehicle that contacts either overhead or underground powerlines, STAY inside. If you’re a bystander, STAY 10 metres away. CALL triple zero and WAIT for help.

Watch our short video for an easy way to understand step and touch potential.