These guidelines are issued under Section 33AA of the Electricity Act 1945 (WA) by the Director of Energy Safety, to assist property owners and electrical contractors in the selection, installation and safe management of private overhead power lines and poles.

There are risks and potential significant consequences of electrical or structural failure of private power poles and lines, including power interruptions, electrocution and fires. These risks and consequences can be mitigated through the proper selection of equipment and regular inspection and maintenance.

It is the property owner's legal responsibility (duty of care) under common law to install and maintain private power poles and lines so they do not pose a safety risk to the property occupants, adjacent properties and their occupants or the wider community.

However, any activities which constitute electrical work must be carried out by licensed electrical contractors.

These guidelines provide the recommended technical requirements and practices for the safe management of privately owned power poles and lines, including:

• repair and maintenance; and
• new construction.