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Overhead Structure and Services Protection on National Highways Toolbox Talk: Safeguarding Workers and Infrastructure in Highways Projects
The Overhead Structure and Services Protection on National Highways Toolbox Talk provides crucial guidance on identifying, managing, and protecting overhead structures and services during highways work. This document is developed in line with Raising the Bar 7 (RTB7) and follows UK government regulations from publications like the Traffic Signs Manual (Chapter 8), The Red Book, and HSE guidance on working near overhead power lines and structures. It helps businesses mitigate risks associated with overhead cables, bridges, gantries, and other elevated infrastructure.
Overhead services, including electrical power lines, communication cables, and structural supports, present significant hazards if not managed correctly. This toolbox talk educates workers on the importance of pre-work surveys, risk assessments, and the use of warning signage and barriers. It also emphasises the need for safety zones around overhead infrastructure, ensuring compliance with The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and HSE’s GS6 guidance on avoiding contact with overhead power lines.
The document highlights best practices such as maintaining safe approach distances, using height-limiting devices on plant equipment, and liaising with utility providers to confirm cable locations and disconnection protocols when necessary. Workers are also briefed on the importance of emergency procedures should equipment make contact with live overhead services.
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Useful Resources and Links
Traffic Signs Manual – Chapter 8: Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road Works and Temporary Situations:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/traffic-signs-manual
Safety at Street Works and Road Works (The Red Book):
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safety-at-street-works-and-road-works
HSE Guidance on Avoiding Danger from Overhead Power Lines (GS6):
https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/gs6.htm
