Advice on working near overhead power lines (GS6)
Working near power lines
Need to build or carry out work in close proximity to overhead power lines? We can help by offering advice on how to work safely around them.
Working near power lines is dangerous which is why we want to make sure the relevant safety precautions are followed to make it safe for customers to complete their work. We offer a free service to provide advice you on how to work safely. This service is also known as GS6 safety advice and is commonly needed when working near power lines which run from pole to pole.
Notifying us
It’s a legal requirement that you notify us in advance if you’re building a temporary or permanent structure within close proximity of power lines. This can be done when you complete our GS6 request form and is a crucial step in ensuring that your project complies with Regulation 18(3) of the Electricity, Quality & Continuity Regulations 2002 (ESQCR). It’s all about keeping your building at a safe distance from power lines and avoid any future needs to relocate our electrical equipment, which could result in additional charges or legal proceedings by the HSE.
Working on a electricity pole with shared utilities such as telecom equipment
Using large machinery near power lines
Building or construction work near overhead power lines
If you are building near overhead power lines, it's a legal requirement to notify us. Don't worry, this is simply part of the process when you complete a GS6 request form. If you are simply working in close proximity to overhead lines, you should still contact us for GS6 advice.
Working near electricity cables which connect to your property
Did you know, if you need to work near an electricity cable which connects to your property, you may be able to have the power lines covered (shrouded).
Safety around power lines
You should always treat electricity power lines as being live. If you see them hanging low, damaged or grounded, please stay at least 10 metres away from the equipment and call us 24 hours a day on 0800 31 63 105 or 105. If you think they're causing significant risk to the public, please call 999.
Please do not risk your safety by working near electricity without taking safety advice first. We offer free advice and a site visit from an expert when you need to work near a power line to make sure you’re working safely. Read more about our safety advice. For more information on working near overhead power lines please read the GS6 guide on the HSE website.
Request a visit
Request a site visit
If you're ready to apply, the first step is to request a site visit by completing our online GS6 form or by logging onto our portal. As part of this process, don't forget to notify us if you're project includes building in close proximity to overhead power lines as this is a legal requirement from the HSE.
We'll call you within ten working days
We'll contact you to talk through your requirements over the phone. If needed, we'll arrange for one of our experts to call or visit you and give you recommendations about how to work safely. We'll always aim to book you in for the next available appointment that is convenient for you.
An expert will call or visit you to offer advice
We may need to carry out more than one visit, but this will depend on your situation and the work involved.
Common questions
Register or log in to our self service portal
You can request this service by registering or logging in to our self service portal which also allows you to submit multiple applications and track the progress of any existing applications. All incomplete application forms will automatically save to your dashboard, so you can always come back to them later.
