Powerline risk sparks innovation

Installing billboard signage presents safety risks, particularly when near overhead power lines.

In order to minimise the risk posed by overhead power lines, outdoor advertising company Bishopp Billboard Constructions has developed  an innovative billboard structure design that significantly reduces the risk of a worker or their tools coming into contact with overhead powerlines.

The design features a rear gantry walkway allowing work to be done behind the billboard’s face, away from powerlines. Additionally, changes to the design of the sail track eliminate the possibility of the worker accidentally feeding equipment into the overhead lines.

The solution received top honours in the electrical safety category at the Safe Work and Return to Work Awards 2017.

Bishopp manages over 800 billboards across Queensland, with its team of six experienced installers performing thousands of signage installations every year. The new billboard structure is being rolled out at all of Bishopp’s structures close to overhead powerlines. Robust safe work methods, signage and a new brochure on working near powerlines (developed with support from the Electrical Safety Office) complement the design changes.

If you’ve developed a solution to an identified workplace electrical safety issue in the last year, the Queensland Electrical Safety Office wants to hear from you. Enter the Safe Work and Return to Work Awards 2018 — the solution could be a product, design/engineering innovation, training program, awareness raising activity or other risk control measure.

Nominations close 6 July 2018.

Image credit: ©iStockphoto.com/Charles Schug