A new safety campaign from Aurora Energy is reminding tradies and contractors to keep their distance when working near power assets - four metres to be exact.

Launched this week, the ‘Safe is a 4 metre word’ campaign is designed to raise awareness about the risks of working too close to live electricity infrastructure, including overhead lines, pole-mounted

equipment and underground cables.

Aurora Energy General Manager of Future Network and Operations Matt Settle said safety is the company’s top priority.

“Tradies and contractors work near our network every day. Safety is our number one value, and we want to make sure everyone gets home unharmed,” Matt said.

Getting too close to live lines can cause electricity to arc - jumping through the air - to people, tools, ladders or machinery like diggers. This can cause serious or even fatal injuries.

Striking cables or overhead lines can also lead to unplanned power outages that affect nearby homes, businesses and communities.

“In 2025, we saw at least 20 reported incidents where contractors hit cables or power poles on our network,” Matt said.

“Thankfully there were no serious injuries, but every one of those incidents had the potential to cause major harm. Keeping four metres away is the simplest and safest choice.”

That four metre buffer is not just a recommendation - it’s a legal requirement under the New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Safe Distances (NZECP 34).

The campaign was produced in collaboration with local contractors including Fulton Hogan and Naylor Love.

Fulton Hogan General Manager – HSQES, Tim Talbot, said the message is timely and important.

“Our crews work near power infrastructure every day, and this campaign reinforces the critical message that staying four metres away can save lives,” he said.

Naylor Love Dunedin Health and Safety Manager Gary Clarkson agreed.

“We’re proud to support Aurora Energy’s campaign to raise awareness of electrical hazards on worksites,” Gary said.

“Reminding our teams to keep a safe distance from power assets is a simple but powerful way to prevent serious incidents.”

The campaign will feature across digital channels, radio, and social media. A resource kit including posters, videos and digital banners is also available for Otago businesses to download and share.

Staying safe near electricity on site - Contractors are encouraged to:

• Always look up before raising ladders or using cranes and diggers.

• Use the free Before U Dig online service to check for underground cables.

• Apply for a close approach consent from Aurora Energy at least five working days before needing to work within four metres of the network.

• Consents will outline minimum safe distances and required safety measures.

Businesses can download safety resources and request support via the Aurora Energy website.