The agencies of Building and Energy and WorkSafe are concerned about the number of incidents involving people and businesses carrying out vegetation control work in the danger zone around powerlines, which has resulted in life changing injuries or fatalities.

In response, the agencies have launched a proactive industry-wide education campaign which will also include spot checks and audits.

Local governments are reminded that Part IX of the Electricity Regulations 1947 mandates a code of practice that must be adhered to when carrying out vegetation control work in the danger zone around powerlines.

Members should be alert to the fact that there are number of vegetation control businesses offering services who do not use qualified and competent personnel and do not follow mandated industry practices.

Refer to the fact sheet and checklist (PDF 295KB) when choosing appropriate operators.

As a person conducting a business or undertaking under the Work Health and Safety Act 2020, local governments have a duty of care to consider all applicable laws, regulations and mandatory codes of practice when procuring services.

Ensure that only qualified and authorised persons are used to carry out general vegetation control work and, vegetation control work near powerlines.

Labour hire contractors and your responsibilities

It is crucial for LGIS members (the host employer) to understand their responsibilities towards labour hire staff and effectively manage the risks associated with this relationship.

The regulatory landscape governing labour hire arrangements has also undergone significant refinement with the introduction of the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA) in 2022. This legislation has expanded the duties and responsibilities of host employers while imposing restrictions on their ability to delegate or contract out of their duties towards hired staff.

As 'host employers' LGIS members often assume unrecognised risk, responsibilities, and obligations.

LGIS' the 'Labour hire risk guide' this year to support members in identifying and managing the risks associated worth using labour hire contractors. The guide has been developed with our legal partners DLA Piper and provides a practical, step-by-step approach for members.

Download the guide on our website by navigating to Risk management> Liability risk management.

For more information on how LGIS can assist you in managing your labour hire risks contact your Regional Risk Coordinator or the Risk Services team.