NS145 Pole Inspection and Treatment Procedures...10.6.1 cn timber oil – (copper napthenate paint) ..... 54 10.7 Treatment of knot holes, grub holes and barrel checks..... 55 10.8

NW000-S0098 UNCONTROLLED IF PRINTED Page 1 of 106

Network Standard

NETWORK

Document No Amendment No Approved By Approval Date Review Date

: : : : :

NW000-S0098 5 Manager – AES 31/08/2017 31/08/2020

Minor amendments approved - 05.08.2020

NW000-S0098 NS145 POLE INSPECTION AND TREATMENT

NS145 Pole Inspection and Treatment Amendment No 5


ISSUE

For issue to all Ausgrid and Accredited Service Providers’ staff involved with the inspection and treatment of Ausgrid owned pole assets, and is for reference by field, technical and engineering staff.

Ausgrid maintains a copy of this and other Network Standards together with updates and amendments on www.ausgrid.com.au.

Where this standard is issued as a controlled document replacing an earlier edition, remove and destroy the superseded document

DISCLAIMER

As Ausgrid’s standards are subject to ongoing review, the information contained in this document may be amended by Ausgrid at any time. It is possible that conflict may exist between standard documents. In this event, the most recent standard shall prevail.

This document has been developed using information available from field and other sources and is suitable for most situations encountered in Ausgrid. Particular conditions, projects or localities may require special or different practices. It is the responsibility of the local manager, supervisor, assured quality contractor and the individuals involved to make sure that a safe system of work is employed and that statutory requirements are met.

Ausgrid disclaims any and all liability to any person or persons for any procedure, process or any other thing done or not done, as a result of this Standard.

All design work, and the associated supply of materials and equipment, must be undertaken in accordance with and consideration of relevant legislative and regulatory requirements, latest revision of Ausgrid’s Network Standards and specifications and Australian Standards. Designs submitted shall be declared as fit for purpose. Where the designer wishes to include a variation to a network standard or an alternative material or equipment to that currently approved the designer must obtain authorisation from the Network Standard owner before incorporating a variation to a Network Standard in a design.

External designers including those authorised as Accredited Service Providers will seek approval through the approved process as outlined in NUS181 Approval of Materials and Equipment and Network Standard Variations. Seeking approval will ensure Network Standards are appropriately updated and that a consistent interpretation of the legislative framework is employed.

Notes: 1. Compliance with this Network Standard does not automatically satisfy the requirements of a Designer Safety Report. The designer must comply with the provisions of the Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (NSW - Part 6.2 Duties of designer of structure and person who commissions construction work) which requires the designer to provide a written safety report to the person who commissioned the design. This report must be provided to Ausgrid in all instances, including where the design was commissioned by or on behalf of a person who proposes to connect premises to Ausgrid’s network, and will form part of the Designer Safety Report which must also be presented to Ausgrid. Further information is provided in Network Standard (NS) 212 Integrated Support Requirements for Ausgrid Network Assets.

2. Where the procedural requirements of this document conflict with contestable project procedures, the contestable project procedures shall take precedent for the whole project or part thereof which is classified as contestable. Any external contact with Ausgrid for contestable works projects is to be made via the Ausgrid officer responsible for facilitating the contestable project. The Contestable Ausgrid officer will liaise with Ausgrid internal departments and specialists as necessary to fulfil the requirements of this standard. All other technical aspects of this document which are not procedural in nature shall apply to contestable works projects.

INTERPRETATION

In the event that any user of this Standard considers that any of its provisions is uncertain, ambiguous or otherwise in need of interpretation, the user should request Ausgrid to clarify the provision. Ausgrid’s interpretation shall then apply as though it was included in the Standard, and is final and binding. No correspondence will be entered into with any person disputing the meaning of the provision published in the Standard or the accuracy of Ausgrid’s interpretation.

KEYPOINTS

This standard has a summary of content labelled “KEYPOINTS FOR THIS STANDARD”. The inclusion or omission of items in this summary does not signify any specific importance or criticality to the items described. It is meant to simply provide the reader with a quick assessment of some of the major issues addressed by the standard. To fully appreciate the content and the requirements of the standard it must be read in its entirety.

AMENDMENTS TO THIS STANDARD

Where there are changes to this standard from the previously approved version, any previous shading is removed and the newly affected paragraphs are shaded with a grey background. Where the document changes exceed 25% of the document content, any grey background in the document is to be removed and the following words should be shown below the title block on the right hand side of the page in bold and italic, for example, Supersedes – document details (for example, “Supersedes Document Type (Category) Document No. Amendment No.”).

http://www.ausgrid.com.au/

KEY POINTS OF THIS STANDARD


General Health and Safety Precautions

Pole Inspection and Treatment Reporting Scope and Risks Addressed

Tools and Forms Pole Inspection and Treatment Flowcharts

Tools and Forms Termite treatment report form Defective pole action sheets

This standard is limited to the scope identified below and prescribes the standard to which the inspections of Ausgrid owned pole assets shall be conducted:

Inspection process only applies to Ausgrid owned pole assets;

Inspection process also applies to private poles under Rural Subsidy Schemes ;

Inspection process only applies to the following types of poles:

o Timber poles; o Steel poles and standards; o Concrete poles; o Fibre composite poles.

Where to for more information? Section 2.0

This section prescribes the general health and safety precaution requirements to conducting pole inspections:

Work shall be carried out in compliance with Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011;

Work shall be carried out in compliance with Ausgrid’s Electrical Safety Rules;

Hazard Assessment Check (HAC) shall be carried out prior to the commence of work;

Electrical hazards, falling objects and operation hazards are some of the most common risks associated with the task of pole inspection;

Workers are responsible for the safety to all persons (including members of the public) that enter their work site

This section prescribes the process and requirements of the inspection and treatment of various types of Ausgrid owned pole assets:

Timber pole inspection and treatment; Steel pole and standard inspection and

treatment; Concrete pole inspection; Fibre composite pole inspection; Defective poles; Restoration of excavation.

This section describes the reporting requirements for the pole inspection process:

Pole inspection report; Pole disc / metal ID plate information; Reporting termite infestations; Defective pole action sheet; Maintenance records and statistics.

Tools and Forms Nil


Where to for more information? Section 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0


NS145 Pole Inspection and Treatment Procedures Amendment No 5


Network Standard NS145

Pole Inspection and Treatment

Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................... 8

2.0 SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................. 8

3.0 REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................................... 8 3.1 Ausgrid documents .................................................................................................................... 8 3.2 Other standards and documents ................................................................................................ 8 3.3 Acts and regulations ................................................................................................................... 9 3.4 Product information and training ................................................................................................ 9

4.0 DEFINITIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 9

5.0 RECORDS ........................................................................................................................................... 12 5.1 Costs ........................................................................................................................................ 12 5.2 Reporting and recording........................................................................................................... 12

5.2.1 Pole inspection reporting .............................................................................................. 12 5.2.2 Recording pole disc / metal ID plate information ......................................................... 12 5.2.3 General reporting and recording requirements for pesticide use ................................. 12 5.2.4 Reporting and notifying of pesticide use to control termite infestations ....................... 13 5.2.5 Defective pole action sheet .......................................................................................... 13 5.2.6 Maintenance records and statistics .............................................................................. 13

6.0 TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS .................................................................................................... 13 6.1 General..................................................................................................................................... 13 6.2 Pesticide application ................................................................................................................ 14

7.0 GENERAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .......................................................................... 14 7.1 Entry to private property ........................................................................................................... 14 7.2 Pre-work written work assessment or hazard assessment check (HAC) ................................ 14 7.3 General precautions ................................................................................................................. 14 7.4 Traffic management ................................................................................................................. 15 7.5 Asbestos containing paint ........................................................................................................ 15 7.6 Falling Objects ......................................................................................................................... 16 7.7 Electrical precautions ............................................................................................................... 16

7.7.1 General ......................................................................................................................... 16 7.7.2 Step and touch voltages ............................................................................................... 16 7.7.3 Contact with cables installed adjacent to poles ........................................................... 18

7.8 Insufficient depth in ground ...................................................................................................... 18 7.9 Excavation precautions ............................................................................................................ 19

7.9.1 Partial excavation ......................................................................................................... 19 7.9.2 Safe to fully excavate criteria and required action ....................................................... 19 7.9.3 Excavating around electrical assets ............................................................................. 19 7.9.4 Cable protection covers ............................................................................................... 20 7.9.5 Excavating paved surfaces .......................................................................................... 20

7.10 Pesticide precautions ............................................................................................................... 21 7.10.1 General ......................................................................................................................... 21 7.10.2 General handling precautions ...................................................................................... 21



8.0 ASSET CONDITION MAINTENANCE CRITERIA ............................................................................... 21 8.1 Wood pole maintenance criteria .............................................................................................. 21 8.2 Timber poles serviceability criteria ........................................................................................... 22 8.3 Reinforced nailed timber pole serviceability criteria ................................................................. 24 8.4 Reinforced splinted timber pole serviceability criteria .............................................................. 24 8.5 Composite timber poles serviceability criteria .......................................................................... 25 8.6 Steel poles serviceability criteria .............................................................................................. 26

8.6.1 Direct buried water pipe type 6.5m columns ................................................................ 27 8.7 Concrete poles serviceability criteria ....................................................................................... 28 8.8 Composite fibre poles serviceability criteria ............................................................................. 30 8.9 Reinforcement criteria .............................................................................................................. 31

8.9.1 Reinforcement of wood poles ....................................................................................... 31 8.9.2 Reinforcement of steel poles ........................................................................................ 32 8.9.3 Termite treatment by baiting criteria ............................................................................. 32

8.10 Defect re-prioritisation .............................................................................................................. 32

9.0 POLE INSPECTION PROCESSES – WOOD POLES ........................................................................ 32 9.1 General..................................................................................................................................... 32 9.2 Sounding wood poles ............................................................................................................... 33

9.2.1 General sounding requirements and guidance ............................................................ 33 9.2.2 Ball pein hammer usage .............................................................................................. 33 9.2.3 Rounded point bar – description and usage ................................................................ 34

9.3 Cleaning and removal of external decay from wood poles ...................................................... 36 9.4 Measuring and calculating pole diameter ................................................................................ 36

9.4.1 Measurement of original diameter (D0) ........................................................................ 36 9.4.2 Measurement of reduced diameter (D1) ....................................................................... 38

9.5 Internal inspection of wood poles ............................................................................................. 40 9.5.1 Drilling assessment - internal inspection methodology ................................................ 41

9.6 Calculation of residual strength ................................................................................................ 43 9.6.1 Formula calculations – timber poles ............................................................................. 43 9.6.2 Strength reduction due to drill holes ............................................................................. 44

9.7 Timber pole inspection process ............................................................................................... 44 9.7.1 Above ground pole inspection process – timber poles ................................................ 44 9.7.2 Excavation and below ground inspection processes - timber poles ............................ 45

9.8 Inspection for termites .............................................................................................................. 48 9.8.1 Process where active termites are found and a termiticidal dust or bait is to be used 50

10.0 PRESERVATIVE TREATMENT OF WOOD POLES .......................................................................... 50 10.1 General..................................................................................................................................... 50 10.2 Preservative Treatment Stockcodes ........................................................................................ 50 10.3 Bore Hole Sterilisation – Boron/Fluoride Polesaver Rods – 10mm Diameter ......................... 51 10.4 Heart rot treatment – boron/fluoride polesaver rods – 14mm diameter ................................... 51 10.5 Soft rot remedial treatment - external preservative bandage................................................... 51

10.5.1 General bandage installation requirements ................................................................. 52 10.5.2 Bioguard bandage ........................................................................................................ 52 10.5.3 Ausmose ‘ausplast’ wrap ............................................................................................. 53

10.6 Treatment of damaged CCA impregnated timber .................................................................... 54 10.6.1 cn timber oil – (copper napthenate paint) .................................................................... 54

10.7 Treatment of knot holes, grub holes and barrel checks ........................................................... 55 10.8 Treatment of reinforced poles .................................................................................................. 55

11.0 TERMITE ERADICATION AND TREATMENT .................................................................................... 55 11.1 Mandatory training ................................................................................................................... 55 11.2 Recording and notification requirements ................................................................................. 55 11.3 Termite eradication and treatment processes description ....................................................... 55



11.4 Bait and liquid termiticide process ........................................................................................... 56 11.4.1 First inspection ............................................................................................................. 56 11.4.2 12 month follow-up termite inspection .......................................................................... 57

11.5 Process 2: Dust and liquid termiticide ...................................................................................... 57 11.5.1 Initial inspections .......................................................................................................... 57 11.5.2 12 month follow-up termite inspection .......................................................................... 57

11.6 Process 3: Liquid Termiticide Only .......................................................................................... 58 11.6.1 First inspection ............................................................................................................. 58 11.6.2 12 month follow-up termite inspection .......................................................................... 58

11.7 Identification of termite affected poles ..................................................................................... 58 11.7.1 Initial installation ........................................................................................................... 58 11.7.2 At the time of initial termite treatment ........................................................................... 59 11.7.3 Completion of first successful termite inspection ......................................................... 59 11.7.4 Completion of final termite inspection .......................................................................... 59

11.8 Termite treatment materials ..................................................................................................... 59

12.0 SEALING HOLES ................................................................................................................................ 59

13.0 RESTORATION OF EXCAVATION ..................................................................................................... 60 13.1 Unpaved areas ......................................................................................................................... 60 13.2 Paved areas ............................................................................................................................. 61

14.0 MARKING DEFECTIVE/CONDEMNED POLES ................................................................................. 61 14.1 Defective pole marking bands description and installation ...................................................... 62

15.0 REINFORCED AND COMPOSITE TIMBER POLE INSPECTION ..................................................... 63 15.1 Reinforced timber poles general inspection requirements ....................................................... 63 15.2 Splinted reinforced poles.......................................................................................................... 63 15.3 Nailed reinforced poles ............................................................................................................ 64 15.4 Composite timber poles ........................................................................................................... 66

16.0 INSPECTION PROCESS - STEEL POLES AND STANDARDS ........................................................ 66 16.1 Visual inspection ...................................................................................................................... 66 16.2 Partial excavation – direct buried steel poles........................................................................... 66 16.3 Steel pole defects ..................................................................................................................... 67 16.4 Formula calculations – steel poles ........................................................................................... 68 16.5 Inspection and treatment – direct buried poles ........................................................................ 69

16.5.1 Direct buried 6.5m water pipe type columns ................................................................ 69 16.5.2 Above ground inspection requirements........................................................................ 69 16.5.3 Treatment – above ground line .................................................................................... 69 16.5.4 Below ground inspection process ................................................................................ 70

16.6 Inspection and treatment – ragbolt mounted poles .................................................................. 71 16.6.1 Steel pole defects – ragbolt mounted ........................................................................... 71 16.6.2 Re-grouting below baseplate of ragbolt mounted standards ....................................... 71 16.6.3 Defective steel poles and standards ............................................................................ 72

17.0 INSPECTION PROCESS - CONCRETE POLES ................................................................................ 72 17.1 General..................................................................................................................................... 72 17.2 Above ground visual inspection and treatment process .......................................................... 72 17.3 Partial excavation ..................................................................................................................... 72 17.4 Below ground inspection process ............................................................................................ 73 17.5 Defective concrete poles and standards .................................................................................. 73 17.6 Examples of common concrete pole defects ........................................................................... 73

18.0 INSPECTION PROCESS – FIBRE COMPOSITE POLES .................................................................. 74 18.1 General..................................................................................................................................... 74 18.2 Above ground visual inspection and treatment requirements .................................................. 74



18.3 Partial excavation ..................................................................................................................... 74 18.4 Below ground inspection requirements .................................................................................... 74 18.5 Defective fibre composite poles ............................................................................................... 74

19.0 RECORDKEEPING ............................................................................................................................. 75

20.0 AUTHORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES .......................................................................................... 75

21.0 COMPLIANCE FRAMEWORK ............................................................................................................ 75

22.0 DOCUMENT CONTROL...................................................................................................................... 75

ANNEXURE A – INFORMATION ON AUSGRID’S TIMBER POLES ............................................................. 76 A1 Finding the pole disc ................................................................................................................ 76 A2 Types of pole disc .................................................................................................................... 76 A3 Pole species, treatments and properties .................................................................................. 79 A4 Poles reinforced with Ausmose Oz C splint ............................................................................. 80 A5 Poles reinforced with RFD nails ............................................................................................... 80 A6 Composite wood/steel poles .................................................................................................... 80 A7 How to determine a pole’s age for the purpose of maintenance ............................................. 80

ANNEXURE B – FINDING THE NEUTRAL AXIS ........................................................................................... 81 B1 Neutral axis of a pole ............................................................................................................... 81 B2 In-line pole without service mains ............................................................................................ 82 B3 In-line pole with service mains ................................................................................................. 82 B4 Angle pole ................................................................................................................................ 83 B5 Termination pole ...................................................................................................................... 83

ANNEXURE C – FIRE-DAMAGED AND BURNING CCA TIMBER POLES ................................................... 84 C1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 84 C2 CCA preservative description .................................................................................................. 84 C3 Toxins found in the smoke and ash from fire-damaged CCA treated timber ........................... 84 C4 General safety .......................................................................................................................... 85

ANNEXURE D – FORMS ................................................................................................................................ 87

ANNEXURE E – GLYPTOTERMES IDENTIFICATION .................................................................................. 90

ANNEXURE F – PESTICIDES REGULATION 2009 EXEMPTION ORDER .................................................. 93

ANNEXURE G – ULTRASONIC THICKNESS GAUGE .................................................................................. 96

ANNEXURE H – TERMITE TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................................... 98 H1 Inspecting for termite activity ................................................................................................... 98 H2 Baiting process ......................................................................................................................... 98 H3 Using a termiticidal dust ......................................................................................................... 100

ANNEXURE I – SAMPLE PROCESS FOR INSPECTING DIRECT BURIED WATER PIPE TYPE 6.5M COLUMNS ......................................................................................................................................... 103

ANNEXURE J – NUMBER OF PERMISSIBLE MAINTENANCE HOLES .................................................... 104

EXTERNAL ANNEXURE M – PRIVATE POLES IN AUSGRID’S FRANCHISE AREA ................................ 106



1.0 INTRODUCTION This Network Standard describes the inspection, assessment and treatment criteria for Ausgrid owned or Ausgrid maintained pole assets including timber poles, reinforced poles, concrete and steel poles, composite poles, fibre composite poles, lighting standards, lightning masts and water crossing sign supports. These poles and standards represent a high capital investment by Ausgrid. Correct maintenance protects this investment and contributes to the safety of staff and the public.

2.0 SCOPE The requirements of this standard apply to Ausgrid owned pole assets throughout Ausgrid’s overhead network. Poles which are not owned by Ausgrid (e.g. private poles and common-use poles) are excluded from the requirements of this Network Standard and must not be inspected or treated, unless detailed in other contract documentation; private poles under Rural Subsidy Schemes are included in the scope of this standard.

3.0 REFERENCES 3.1 Ausgrid documents

• Bush Fire Risk Management Plan • Customer Installation Safety Plan • Electrical Safety Rules • Electricity Network Safety Management System Manual • Electricity Network Safety Management System (ENSMS) • Formal Safety Assessment - Bushfire • M&RP 101/15 Network Defect Prioritisation Matrix • NEG EP05 Access to Private Property • NEG SE05-06 Safety Equipment – Care, Use and Inspection • NEG SE09 Management of CCA Impregnated Wood - Including Burning/Fire-Damaged CCA

Poles • NS128 Specification for Pole Installation and Removal • NS212 Integrated Support Requirements for Ausgrid Network Assets • NUS174 Environmental Procedures • NUS181 Approval of Materials and Equipment and Network Standard Variations • Public Electrical Safety Awareness Plan • Public Lighting Management Plan • SAP Training Manual (User Guide Appendix) • Tree Safety Management Plan.

3.2 Other standards and documents • AS/NZS 1720 ‘Timber Structures’. • AS/NZS 2878/2000 Timber – Classification into Strength Groups. • AS/NZS 3566.1-2002 Self-drilling screws for the building and construction industries - General

requirements and mechanical properties • AS/NZS 3566.2-2002 Self-drilling screws for the building and construction industries - Corrosion

resistance requirements • AS/NZS 3818.11 Timber – Heavy Structural Products – Visually graded. Part 11: Utility Poles • AS/NZS 7000:2010 Overhead Line Design • Electricity Association Specification Drawing EAS 111 • Energy Networks Association – ENA Doc 01 National Electricity Network Safety Code - 2008 • Utility Asset Management (UAM) Technical Manual



• Pole User Guide (DPPL) - Titan Engineered Cement Poles (ECP) by Dulhunty.

3.3 Acts and regulations • Electricity Supply (General) Regulation 2014 (NSW) • Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2014 • Pesticides Regulation 2009 • Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Regulation 2017 • Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 Exemption Order – Current Issue (Annexure E).

3.4 Product information and training • Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF): • Level 4 - such as ChemCert or SMARTtrain that includes units

AHCCHM401A – Minimise risks in the use of chemicals; and AHCCHM402A – Plan and implement a chemical use program

• Level 3 - such as ChemCert or SMARTtrain that includes units AHCCHM303A – Prepare and apply chemicals; and AHCCHM304A – Transport, handle and store chemicals

• Electricity Association of New South Wales – Product Information and Safe Handling Procedure for PEC and CCA Treated Timber Poles and Cross Arms

• Pole Inspectors Training (TAFE Course No.27510) • Product label for TERMIDOR® RESIDUAL TERMITICIDE • Product label for FIPFORCE Dust Termiticide • Product label for NEMESIS Termite Bait.

4.0 DEFINITIONS Accredited Service Provider (ASP)

An individual or entity accredited by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, in accordance with the Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2014 (NSW).

Blackbutt Timber Species

Blackbutt timber species are defined as a Durability Class 2 timber, according to Australian Standard 1720 ‘Timber Structures’. Durability Class 2 timbers have a high natural durability which may be expected to have a life of 15-25 years. Poles with Blackbutt timber are identified by the pole disc indicating a species of 'BB'.

Common-Use Pole

A pole belonging to another public utility or authority, on which Ausgrid’s wires are attached. The pole is mainly used to carry conductors belonging to the owner of the pole. These poles must not be inspected or treated.

Composite Timber Pole

A timber pole which has the below ground portion of a timber pole replaced with a non-timber material, e.g. a steel reinforced concrete stub or a concrete filled steel stub.

Composite Pole A pole which is fabricated from a composite material (e.g. fibre-cement)

Concrete Pole A pole manufactured with reinforced concrete.

Condemned Pole A limited life pole assessed by Ausgrid in accordance with this document as requiring remedial treatment or replacement without undue delay.

Conditionally Serviceable Pole

A limited life pole assessed by Ausgrid as defective in accordance with this document as requiring remedial treatment or replacement but which has sufficient residual strength to support the existing applied loads at the time of the inspection.

Copper-Chrome Arsenate (CCA) Impregnated Pole

A debarked, naturally round timber pole, with the sapwood pressure impregnated with Copper Chrome Arsenate (CCA) timber preservative. CCA poles are a greenish colour. The timber from CCA treated poles must not be burned, as the fumes given off are highly toxic.



Creosote Impregnated Pole

An undressed, fully sapped, lower durability class timber pole with the sapwood impregnated with high temperature creosote. Creosote pressure impregnated poles have a distinctive dark-brown colour and may ‘bleed’ free creosote when new.

Dangerous Pole A limited life pole considered to be dangerous by the person performing the inspection. Such a pole will be assessed by the person performing the inspection as having a residual strength that is close to the load that is applied to the pole, meaning the pole is in imminent danger of collapse. Poles that move in the ground when being worked on fit into this category as do poles that have a defect that appears to be nearly the full diameter of the pole. If a pole is considered to be dangerous, it must be reported immediately to the Ausgrid Supervisor/Contract Officer to ensure appropriate action is taken.

Defective Pole A limited life pole in service identified by a single 70mm wide orange band located 2.4 – 3.0 metres above ground which, at the time of inspection, was assessed as being condemned or conditionally serviceable, or has other defects such as vehicle damage which may affect its suitability to remain in service. Defective poles are assessed by Ausgrid for their suitability to be replaced, reinforced, or returned to service.

Design Load The calculated load imposed upon the pole, under the wind loading conditions adopted by the supply authority, to comply with the requirements of the Network Management Plan February 2009 and ENA C (b) 1 – 2006 Guidelines for Design and Maintenance of Overhead Distribution and Transmission Lines.

Document control Ausgrid employees who work with printed copies of document must check the document repository regularly to monitor version control. Documents are considered “UNCONTROLLED IF PRINTED”, as indicated in the footer.

Dressed Pole An untreated timber pole, generally high durability class timber, which has been de-sapped and has a machined cross section.

Electricity Supply Network

The network of overhead and underground transmission, sub-transmission and distribution conductors and pilot cables, owned by Ausgrid and passing over either public or private property. Including the street lighting network supplying street lighting luminaires.

Fibre Cement Pole Fibre composite pole are manufactured from fibreglass and cement, spun on a mandrel into a tapered tubular shape.

Fibre Composite Poles

Ausgrid has two types of manufactured fibre composite poles found on its network. They are fibre cement poles and fibre plastics poles.

Fibre Plastics Pole

Fibre composite pole are manufactured fibre composite pole from glassfibre and polymer resin. Usually not recommended to be used on Ausgrid’s network because of their poor bushfire performance.

Fully Supported Poles

Fully supported poles are those which cannot fall to ground because their tops are held in place by conductors and/or stays. Examples are stayed angle poles, poles supporting conductors in three or more directions etc., where the conductor tensions are balancing each other.

Joint-Use Pole A pole belonging to Ausgrid, to which another utility or authority’s construction is attached. Ausgrid maintains an integrated Asset Management System (SAP) that records data in a SAP database. It contains data related to the construction and maintenance of Ausgrid's Network, including pole inspection and treatment.



Limited Life Pole A pole that has been found to have a defect which requires corrective action, or a pole that has been found to have a foundation that requires corrective action (a stay is considered part of the pole foundation).

MAM Device Mobile Asset Management (MAM). Field device used to record inspection results, update master data and create notifications. Synchronising the device uploads / downloads information with SAP.

Must Refer to definition for shall.

Natural Round Pole

An untreated timber pole with the sapwood still remaining.

Network Standard A document, including Network Planning Standards, that describes the Company's minimum requirements for planning, design, construction, maintenance, technical specification, environmental, property and metering activities on the distribution and transmission network. These documents are stored in the Network Category of the document repository and available externally on Ausgrid’s website.

Pole A structure, excluding a steel tower, supporting the Electricity Supply Network. This includes poles used as support structures for Ausgrid maintained luminaries, lightning masts, water crossing signs and poles used to support Ausgrid’s electricity network inside substation switchyards.

Private Pole A pole not owned by Ausgrid. These include, for example, private poles belonging to the NSW Roads and Maritime Services, formerly known as NSW Roads and Traffic Authority, (to carry lighting and signage on road bridges, underpasses and overpasses) and private poles which form part of a customer’s installation.

Regal Species Regal species hardwood poles are naturally highly resistant to fungal and insect attack. These species are graded with respect to their strength and durability. The highest grading (grade 1) includes the ironbarks, tallow-wood, grey and yellow box, and white mahogany timber species.

Reinforced (Nailed or Splinted) Pole

A pole with the original foundation supplemented with a structural support system. This system may consist of either steel galvanised nails or splints, extending from below groundline to varying heights over one metre above groundline and attached to the pole by bolt or metal band.

Remaining or Residual Strength

Is the current strength of the pole as assessed by measurement of the loss of sound timber compared to the strength of the pole when new as assessed by average pole diameter measurement taken at nominal groundline.

Review date The review date displayed in the header of the document is the future date for review of a document. The default period is three years from the date of approval however a review may be mandated at any time where a need is identified. Potential needs for a review include changes in legislation, organisational changes, restructures, occurrence of an incident or changes in technology or work practice and/or identification of efficiency improvements.

SAP Ausgrid’s internal asset database that stores the information and inspection/maintenance history of all Ausgrid overhead line supports, pillars and other network assets.

Serviceable Pole A pole in service which is considered to be capable of bearing its design load with a net residual strength sufficient to adequately manage the risk of failure and capable of lasting another pole maintenance cycle (refer to MRPA101 for current specified maintenance periodicity information).

Shall Indicates a statement is mandatory.

Should Indicates a recommendation.

Steel Pole A pole manufactured with steel.



Specialist Pesticide Officer

An authorised Pole Inspector specifically trained and individually authorised by Ausgrid to carry out termite treatment, other than bait installation, whose primary duty is termite eradication.

Street Lighting Pole

A pole used for the sole purpose of supporting street luminaire(s). The luminaire(s) may be either installed on or suspended from the pole.

Wall Thickness The wall thickness is a measure of the remaining good wood after allowance has been made for internal defects and any rotten or defective external timber.

Wet Hole (including Free Ingress of Water)

Where water either exists in the hole as it is dug (e.g. permanently wet ground) or enters the hole from the surrounding soil immediately following excavation.

5.0 RECORDS 5.1 Costs

Costs are to be captured against each asset by asset and activity type e.g. woods poles inspection or treatment.

5.2 Reporting and recording 5.2.1 Pole inspection reporting Each Pole Inspector is issued with a MAM device to record data. While at each individual location the Pole Inspector is required to review and update master data, enter all inspection details, and create notifications. Synchronising of the MAM device should occur at the end of each working day. The use of a Master Record Sheet (MRS) is only to be considered when a MAM device is unavailable. The data will then be required to be entered by the Pole Inspection Service Provider via the SAP backend. All poles required to be immediately reported to Ausgrid will require the MAMs device to be synchronised from the site.

5.2.2 Recording pole disc / metal ID plate information The Pole Inspector must ensure all the information on the pole disc / metal ID plate is recorded including the height of the pole disc / metal ID plate above groundline. Data is to be entered into SAP / MAMS, by the Pole Inspection Service Provider.

5.2.3 General reporting and recording requirements for pesticide use The definition of a pesticide under the Pesticides Regulation 2009 includes both those products Ausgrid uses to control termite activity and those products used to control fungal activity (preserve timber).

A pesticide notification must be provided to the owner/occupier of a premise;

• 48 hours prior to a pesticide being applied on private property; or • five working days prior to spraying outdoors or injecting liquid pesticides into the ground

outdoors within 20 metres of the boundary of a ‘Sensitive Place’. • at the conclusion of the pesticide application where either of the above notifications are

required. System records must be kept to enable proof of compliance to Clause 14 of the Pesticides Regulation 2009 which requires the following information to be recorded:

• Name of the pesticide • Who applied the pesticide • Date and times (start and end for spraying and injection applications) it was applied • Equipment used for application. • Where it was applied including the name of the owner of the site if a private property • What the pesticide was applied to



• The quantity applied including the amount made up and used, and the rate of application where applicable.

For mandatory recording of full product name of pesticides used for work specified by this standard refer to the appropriate section of this standard.

5.2.4 Reporting and notifying of pesticide use to control termite infestations A 'Termite Treatment Report Form' sheet must be submitted for any pole that is found to have active termites in it (sample in Annexure D). Data is to be entered into SAP / MAMS, by the Pole Inspection Service Provider.

5.2.5 Defective pole action sheet A 'Defective Pole Action' (DPA) sheet must be submitted to Ausgrid (Regional Contract Services) for any pole that is identified as defective (samples in Annexure D). All poles required to be immediately reported to Ausgrid will require the Defective Pole Action Sheet to be received by Ausgrid by the close of business on the same day as the defect was found.

The DPA sheet must be attached to the SAP notification by COB next week day.

5.2.6 Maintenance records and statistics All maintenance records and statistics are electronically held in SAP. Reports on the construction and maintenance history are obtainable from the SAP system.

All termite treatment forms, affected parties notifications and product usage record data will be kept for a period of three years. SAP is to be updated to reflect the content where applicable. All data not maintained in SAP will be made available upon request.

All address records for poles (pesticide treatment locations) will be maintained and located in Ausgrid’s Geographic Information System (GIS). The GIS system directly relates the geospatial coordinates of a site to the cadastre data.

6.0 TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS 6.1 General

To carry out the functions of a pole inspector on Ausgrid’s assets a worker must:

Be authorised by Ausgrid.

Have successfully completed the following courses:

• Ausgrid Pole Inspection Course M1425 and the required pre-requisites. • Mandatory Pesticide Application Training (see clause 6.2 below). Meet all of the requirements of clause 6.2 in addition to the mandatory training requirements.

Note: Pole Inspectors will require additional mandatory non-pole inspection specific training to enable them to work safely on Ausgrid’s network as a part of their Authorisation. This training which is not specific to the pole inspection maintenance activities is not mandated in this maintenance standard.



6.2 Pesticide application To apply pesticides around Power Poles it is a mandatory requirement for personnel to satisfy the requirements specified in the Pesticides Regulation 2009 Exemption Order, known as the Electricity Pole Inspection Exemption Order and reproduced in Annexure F in this document.

Note: Under the Pesticides Amendment Regulation 2009 – the Smarttrain/Chemcert qualification lasts for five years after which the course must be undertaken again.

All trained personnel shall carry evidence of the prescribed qualification or training.

7.0 GENERAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 7.1 Entry to private property

Only Authorised Officers with Certificates of Authority issued by Ausgrid are permitted to enter customer premises. The requirements for entering customer premises are outlined in the Ausgrid Network Engineering Guideline NEGEP05 Entry to Private Property.

Note: The pesticide use notification requirements that apply to usage on private property (reference Section 5.2).

7.2 Pre-work written work assessment or hazard assessment check (HAC) For the purpose of this Network Standard, the terms “written work assessment” and “hazard assessment check” are interchangeable.

All work shall be carried out in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Act and Regulation and Ausgrid’s requirements, including Ausgrid’s Electrical Safety Rules.

A written work assessment or Pre-Job Hazard Assessment Check (HAC) satisfying the requirements of Ausgrid’s Be Safe Procedure 10.1: Completing a Site Risk Assessment-Hazard Assessment Check (HAC) shall be conducted on site prior to the commencement of work.

If the HAC identifies risks that cannot be reduced to levels where work can be carried out safely or as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP), inspectors shall report the situation to their immediate supervisor and the inspection shall not proceed.

7.3 General precautions Poles are installed in all types of terrain, from suburban to mountainous to coastal marine. It is therefore not possible for this Network Standard to account for all specific safety precautions for every situation.

If at any stage during the inspection it is considered that the pole’s condition is potentially dangerous, or it appears to be loaded close to or beyond its available capacity, or appears to be in danger of immediate collapse stop work, make the work site safe and immediately report the pole to the Ausgrid Regional Contract Services Officer so appropriate action can be taken.

Clause 28 WHS Act 2011 – Duties of Workers:

(a) Take reasonable care for his or her own health and safety, and

(b) Take reasonable care that acts and omissions do not adversely affect the health and safety of other persons, and

(c) Comply, so far as reasonably practicable with any reasonable instruction from PCBU to comply with the Act and

(d) Co-operate with a policy or procedure of the PCBU relating to health and safety.

The following key points shall be considered when planning and carrying out work on or adjacent to poles:



• Effective use of road safety and traffic control measures can lower the risks of traffic entering the work site. Such measures include delineating the work site, use of flashing lights and wearing of high-visibility vests when working on or near roadways;

• Electrical safety, the content of clause 7.7 (for use in HAC) and clearances (refer to Electrical Safety Rules) shall be observed at all times;

• Personal safety items (e.g. face masks when drilling CCA poles, hard hat, gloves, and eye protection) shall be used when required;

• Effective use of environmental safety control measures can prevent contamination of the surrounding environment.

All relevant legislations, Ausgrid’s Electrical Safety Rules and NS102 Working on Poles with Mobile Phone Transmitter Installations shall be complied with when working on or near poles.

7.4 Traffic management Traffic management requirements shall be observed in accordance with legislative requirements and AS/NZS1742 Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, the WorkCover Code of Practice for Working near Traffic and Mobile Plant, and the NSW Roads and Maritime Services Guide Traffic Control at Worksites.

7.5 Asbestos containing paint Work must not occur on poles confirmed as containing asbestos paint, or those identified as having a similar appearance except under emergency or special provisions.

Where work has to proceed under emergency provisions (work less than 1 hours), Level 3 Emergency Response PPE must be worn by all workers.

At the time of writing this standard the confirmed instances of remnants of friable asbestos paint on Ausgrid’s poles occur within the former St George County Council Area and include:

• poles with a band of white paint at ground level • poles with ‘grey’ paint • poles with ‘black’ paint at ground level.

All poles tested have been recorded on the Asbestos Register and in GIS including those where no asbestos was present. Where a pole is found with ‘grey’ ‘white' or 'black' paint and it is not listed in the Asbestos Register or GIS, contact Environmental Services Hazardous Materials Hotline on 02-9394 6961 to arrange testing before planned work is undertaken.

Figures 7.5 a) & b): Examples of poles with remnant friable asbestos containing paint

Remnants of white paint

Remnants of grey paint



7.6 Falling Objects Appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g. hard hat) shall be used when working at the base of a pole. Inspectors shall also be aware that falling objects presents a hazard to other parts of the body, as more of the body is exposed to falling objects when working in a bent over position than a standing position.

A pre-work visual inspection shall be conducted to identify above ground hazardous objects such as:

• loose sapwood

• loose streetlights

• loose nuts

• loose vertical construction

• tools left on crossarms

• defective insulators.

WARNING

Look up and LIVE!

7.7 Electrical precautions 7.7.1 General Electrical hazards may exist ABOVE or BELOW ground level. The following clauses list examples of such hazards.

7.7.2 Step and touch voltages 7.7.2.1 General Workers shall be aware that it is possible for voltage gradients (differences in voltage) to exist on or near a pole in the event of conductor breakage or insulation breakdown. Precautions must be put in place to safeguard themselves and others against inadvertent contact with step and touch voltages.

Where a step or touch voltage hazard is identified the situation shall be reported to the worker’s immediate Supervisor, Regional Contract Services Officer or Ausgrid's Emergency Line on 131388 (unless the installation has been proven to be de-energised and isolated).

Notes:

1. Streetlight conductors shall be considered as alive at all times unless they are proven to be de-energised and isolated.

2. Single wire earth return (SWER) substation poles are only to be inspected as directed in clause 7.7.2.7

7.7.2.2 Above ground Pole inspectors shall be aware of step and touch voltage safety risks that may exist above ground. In the following circumstances pole inspectors must assume a step and touch voltage hazard exists and report the hazard:

• Conductors not properly fixed to insulators (broken tie). Conductors that are not properly fixed to insulators may fall on to the crossarm or to the ground when disturbed. Prior to working on or near a pole, the overhead installation shall be visually inspected to confirm that all conductors are properly attached to insulators. If a conductor is in contact with the crossarm or pole, the pole shall be assumed live.

• Low ground clearance of conductors. Visual inspection shall be carried out to confirm, prior to reporting the situation, that the conductors have adequate ground clearance so that people or vehicles may not inadvertently come in contact with conductors (take particular care with vehicle radio aerials).

• Broken earth wires: Refer to Clause 7.7.2.3.



The following situations are causal factors for step and touch voltage hazards. Note the mandatory requirement to perform the test described in clause 7.7.2.4 and report any confirmed step and touch voltage hazard:

• Cracked or damaged insulators. Overhead mains and its associated hardware shall be visually inspected prior to working on a pole. Defective insulators may cause the pole to become “alive” without operating protective devices. Refer to Clause 7.7.2.4 for information on how to detect for voltages caused by electrical leakage currents.

• Conductive foreign objects. Objects such as pieces of fencing wire, metal chain (or in some circumstances trees), in contact with conductors, metal conduits, or apparatus on poles may be alive. Visual inspection shall be conducted to confirm that no conductive objects are in contact with, or are likely to come in to contact with, live conductors.

Reporting of the above defects are not in the scope of the pole inspection process unless otherwise stated in this Network Standard, or a dangerous situation that may cause a bushfire or harm to human life has been identified.

7.7.2.3 Above ground visual inspection of earth wires Earth wires form a part of an earthing system and they can become damaged in many ways.

If earth wires are present on a pole, the above ground condition of the earth wire shall be assessed by a visual inspection prior to making initial contact with the pole.

Any broken (sections of these wires are sometimes stolen or they may be damaged by a passing vehicle) earth wires identified shall be reported immediately as a dangerous situation to your immediate supervisor or Ausgrid’s Emergency Line on 131388.

WARNING Pole inspectors SHALL NOT attempt to re-join broken earth wires. Full phase to earth

voltage may exist between the severed ends.

7.7.2.4 Apply voltage detector on pole A proximity type voltage detector capable of identifying voltages 50V and above shall be used to test each pole and conductive attachments for voltages caused by electrical leakage currents (touch voltages) prior to initial contact with the pole and where required below ground. Refer to NEG SE05-06 Safety Equipment – Care, Use and Inspection, for further information.

Any touch voltage identified shall be reported immediately as a dangerous situation to your immediate supervisor or Ausgrid’s Emergency Line on 131388.

7.7.2.5 Below ground Pole inspectors shall be aware of touch potential safety risks that may exist below ground and take appropriate precautions. Touch potential Safety risks include:

• Broken earth wires. Refer to Clause 7.7.2.6. • Underground cables. Workers shall be aware that below ground electrical installations, including

communications cables may exist close to the pole(s) that is being worked on (Some communications installations may be operating at voltages up to 500V). Underground power cables forming part of an underground to overhead connection (UGOH) can exist at a shallow depth near power poles. These cables can be easily damaged by digging implements and this may cause a hazardous situation. For guidance refer to NS156 Working Near or Around Underground Cables.

Note: UGOH cables do not always run from the pole back to the adjacent Distribution Substation in a straight line, nor do they always radiate out from the pole at 90°. UGOH cables may coil around the pole to provide spare cable in case of a pole change over or re-termination and they may be adjacent to poles that do not have these above ground cable installations (UGOHs) on them. Where it is suspected or confirmed that such cables exist near the pole that is being worked on, then hand excavation shall be carried out with care. If there is a high risk of cable damage, then the work shall not proceed. The Contract Officer or supervisor shall be contacted to determine the most appropriate course of action before work can proceed.



Precautions for below ground touch potential risks include:

• Mandatory use LV insulation gloves when a UGOH on a pole is identified as being of cable type HDPE (High-density Polyethylene).

• Mandatory use of voltage detector below ground on poles with either earth down leads or UGOH cable attached.

7.7.2.6 Below ground visual inspection of earth wires Earth wires form a part of an earthing system and they can become damaged in many ways.

If earth wires are present on a pole, the below ground condition of the earth wire shall be assessed and continuously monitored by visual inspections as excavation takes place.

Any broken earth wires identified shall be reported immediately as a dangerous situation to your immediate supervisor or Ausgrid’s Emergency Line on 131388.

WARNING

Pole inspectors SHALL NOT attempt to re-join broken earth wires. Full phase to earth voltage may exist between the severed ends.

7.7.2.7 Single wire earth return (SWER) substation poles The inspection and treatment of any SWER Transformer poles shall only be carried out while the feeder is out of service and under access permit. This work should be completed in conjunction with Ausgrid’s annual inspection of SWER pole earthing installations and in the presence of a member of Ausgrid’s staff authorised to carry out such earthing installation inspections.

7.7.3 Contact with cables installed adjacent to poles All cables installed adjacent to poles are to be considered LIVE. Damaging the protective covering of a LIVE cable is likely to result in an arc flash or electric shock. Contact with cables installed adjacent to poles (those running down the outside of poles and those in the excavation) shall be minimised and controlled in accordance with the following:

Control contact with cable in the excavation by complying with clauses 7.7.2.5, 7.7.2.6, 7.9.3 and 7.9.4.

Control contact with cable running down the outside of poles by complying with clauses 7.7.2, 7.7.2.2, 7.7.2.3, and 7.7.2.4.

7.8 Insufficient depth in ground If a pole is not placed deep enough in the ground it can severely reduce the stability of the pole.

It is important to be aware if the ground level has been lowered relative to the pole, refer to the figure below. A pole will lose significant stability with any reduction of depth in ground. Typically, road re-alignment work or landscaping of the footpath area may result in a pole having less depth in ground. Annexure A describes the correct height of pole discs, which are a good indicator of pole sinking depth (refer to NS128 for the correct pole sinking depths). In addition, in the ex-Mackellar district, poles were marked with a ‘T’ shaped notch 10 feet (approximately 3m) from the base of the pole. Great care should be exercised before digging out a pole that has less depth in ground than when originally installed. Where doubt exists the pole should be reported to the Ausgrid Regional Contract Services Officer and inspected before any excavation is carried out.



Figure 7.8: Effect of depth in ground on stability

7.9 Excavation precautions

CAUTION Extreme caution is to be exercised when excavating around a pole, particularly those

poles that have cables and other items attached to them. Where a cable enters the ground from a pole, it should NOT be assumed that the cable enters vertically from a depth below 350mm or perpendicular to the pole from an adjacent asset, or that it is

clear of the remaining inspection area around the pole.

7.9.1 Partial excavation Partial excavation must be carried out around poles prior to carrying out a full excavation. The partial excavation should be undertaken on non-load bearing faces (Neutral axis) of the pole. The purpose of partial excavation is to allow an examination of part of the below-ground section of the pole so it can be determined if it is safe to fully excavate. The only acceptable reason for undertaking a partial excavation on a load bearing (critical) axis is that either drill holes exist in all suitable areas in the neutral axis or the preferred areas are covered by attachments or in ground obstructions or a combination of these exist preventing a valid test of the timber in the neutral axis.

7.9.2 Safe to fully excavate criteria and required action The criteria for determining when a pole is safe to fully excavate are:

• a pole has a calculated residual strength of equal to or greater than 25%, or the pole is considered to be not loaded close to or beyond its available capacity (eg. An athwartship pole may have a residual strength of 25% or less but it will not generally be loaded beyond its capacity), and

• a pole does not appear to be a dangerous pole (eg. Pole does not move in the ground when it is leaned on or does not have a defect that appears to be nearly the full size of the pole).

Where a pole is identified as potentially not safe to fully excavate do not continue with the excavation, refill the partial excavation and immediately report the pole to the regional Contract Services Officer, immediate supervisor or Ausgrid’s Emergency Line on 131388 to ensure appropriate action is taken. Complete a Defective Pole Action (DPA) Sheet (see clause 5.2.5 and Annexure D).

7.9.3 Excavating around electrical assets When excavating or cleaning a pole around electrical assets inspectors should, where practicable, use non-conductive tools or tools with non-conductive handles. It is important that poles are thoroughly checked for defects immediately adjacent to attached cables (as the poles are not treated for fungal decay as effectively in these areas and it is therefore more likely that defects will exist in these areas). However, inspectors shall exercise caution to make sure they do not damage cables and risk exposure to electric shock or arc flash. Where a cable is observed as having damaged insulation (eg. where outer covering is partially removed exposing underlying material) it is to be reported to your immediate supervisor or Ausgrid’s Emergency Line on 131388 to ensure appropriate action is taken.

Refer to clause 7.7.2 and its sub-clauses for specific safety requirements to be employed to protect against step and touch voltages.



7.9.4 Cable protection covers Electrical assets installed underground are required to be covered with a cable protection cover (ref: figure 7.9.4 below for an example of an approved cover). Where these covers are uncovered they indicate the presence of cables underneath. Pole inspectors are required to remove cover strip sections found in the excavation area surrounding a pole to enable the pole to be fully exposed for inspection and treatment. Once a cable protection cover has been removed, further excavation near the cable/s shall not be completed with shovels, spades requiring the use of two hands or other soil breaking implements. Only hand held tools shall be used to remove the loose soil around the cables. Where these covers are found they are to be replaced during the reinstatement of the excavation, where they are missing the pole inspector shall install a piece of cover over all cables in the excavation during the reinstatement works.

Figure 7.9.4 Cable Protection Cover

7.9.5 Excavating paved surfaces Paved surfaces around direct buried poles must be removed to allow below ground inspection, however concrete kerbs must not be cut or damaged. Paving tiles shall be lifted and removed. Any pole that has continuous paving installed within 200mm of the pole is to have the paving saw-cut away to give at least 200mm minimum clearance around the pole and cold mix installed in accordance with the site restoration section.

After completion of the inspection and treatment process the paving tiles that have been shaped to fit neatly around the pole shall be put back as they were found. All other surface material inside the defined inspection area shall be removed from site. Where decorative concrete driveways or paths exist within 200mm of direct buried poles, the customer and Ausgrid must be notified and agreement obtained prior to any cutting and removal being undertaken.

Figure 7.9.5 Inaccessible Pole

Note: Direct buried poles must be accessible for below ground inspection. Where they are found in locations where they cannot be correctly inspected, such as shown above, either the obstruction must be removed to facilitate inspection, the pole relocated or the pole replaced in the same location with a composite fibre pole. A wood pole concreted in as shown will become dangerous because it’s below ground condition cannot be determined and fungal decay is likely to flourish in the high moisture environment. Situations where the full pole inspection process cannot be carried out must be reported to the Ausgrid Regional Contract Officer or Transmission & Distribution Mains Engineering.



7.10 Pesticide precautions 7.10.1 General All pesticide application must be carried out in a manner that manages the following risks:

• contact between humans and the pesticide materials • contact between livestock and other animals and the pesticide materials. • contamination of the environment. Management of the above risks is to be achieved by:

• restricting application to trained and authorised workers (reference Section6) • observing the general handling precautions detailed in the following clause 7.10.1 and the

product material safety data sheet • using the appropriate PPE when handling the pesticide materials (reference Section 10) • making certain that bandages are installed so that no part appears above ground (is exposed

for the duration of the maintenance cycle) • sealing treated inspection holes in accordance with this document • providing notification of use of pesticides in accordance with this document. • installing product strictly in accordance with the manufacturers labelling requirements and any

guidance provided by this document.

7.10.2 General handling precautions When handling Boron/Fluoride Rods, Bioguard Bandage, Ausplast, Xtroll and CN Timber Oil (Copper Napthenate paint), precautions should be taken to avoid contact with the skin and eyes, and synthetic rubber/PVC gloves must be worn. In addition, when handling CN Timber Oil (Copper Napthenate paint), eye protection must be worn and the paint applied with a brush.

Reference must also be made to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for these products and specific controls listed in the SDS applied for each chemical.

8.0 ASSET CONDITION MAINTENANCE CRITERIA 8.1 Wood pole maintenance criteria

Full above ground pole inspections will be carried out on all wood poles.

Below ground fungicidal treatments and external inspections shall be carried out on all wood poles other than the following:

• nil during the first five years of service of new timber poles that are not CCA treated. • nil during the first 15 years of service of Copper Chrome Arsenate (CCA) impregnated poles. UNLESS:

• there is active termites in the pole, or • evidence of fungal decay exists (a fruiting body is evidence of fungal decay), or • sounding indicates a defect in the pole, or • there is no pole disc (see Annexure A). In addition to the above, internal inspections shall only be carried out on CCA poles when:

• the poles installation date on the pole disk is older than 1994 (see Annexure A), or • the CCA treated timber below groundline is defective, or • a possible internal defect is indicated during the external inspection process. Notes:

1. Where the treated sapwood below ground on a CCA pole has become degraded, which is generally indicated by the presence of soft rot and the formation of a ‘ladies waist’ below ground line. This will generally, result in a reduced diameter below groundline. An intact treated



sapwood band is essential to provide the required pole strength. Where this timber has been compromised, then the pole must be internally inspected.

2. The identification of an internal defect will generally necessitate an internal inspection at the location of the defect, NOT 100mm below groundline unless that is the location of the defect.

8.2 Timber poles serviceability criteria Table 8.2a Timber poles serviceability rules

Serviceability State:

Serviceability Limits: Required Action/s:

Defective CAT1 Residual strength is less than 25 % (Pole is condemned)

Assess immediately for suitability to reinforce (Reference Clause 8.3), and reinforce or replace as appropriate with CAT 1 priority

Pole is leaning more than 10°, is an immediate risk to people or the environment and is either: leaning over the carriageway of a road, supporting a transformer, resulting in low cable clearances.

Remediate with CAT1 priority.

Defective CAT2 Pole is conditionally serviceable ie. it has either: residual strength equal to or greater than 25% but less than 50%, or an average wall thickness, at or below groundline, less than the criteria documented in table 8.2 b).

Assess immediately for suitability to reinforce (Reference Clause 8.3). Reinforce where suitable. Replace where not suitable. CAT 2 Priority.

Defective CAT4 Pole is leaning more than 10° but does not meet the criteria above for CAT1.


Serviceable Residual strength is equal to or greater than 50% and the average wall thickness, at or below groundline, is equal to or greater than the criteria documented in table 8.2 b).

Complete required preventative maintenance activities. Pole remains in service

Note: The minimum serviceable average wall thickness is the average of the front wall ‘A’ and back wall ‘D1-B’ measurements obtained from internal inspections taken at or below groundline.

In addition to the above serviceability rules. The reinforcement or replacement of a “dimensionally” serviceable pole may be justified with a subjective determination by the regional Ausgrid Regional Contract Services Officer or Mains Engineering that a pole is incapable of lasting another 5 year inspection cycle. Details of the assessment and reason(s) for replacement must be included on both the pole assess and pole replacement notifications.



Table 8.2b Minimum serviceable average wall thickness Pole Diameter

Diameter Reduction (ΔD)

ΔD < 5mm 5mm ≤ ΔD < 20mm ΔD ≥ 20mm

D0 ≤ 350mm 35 50 70

D0 > 350mm 45 65 80

Where, ΔD is the reduction in pole diameter given by D0 – D1 D0 is the original pole diameter measured in accordance with Clause 9.4.1. D1 is the reduced pole diameter measured in accordance with Clause 9.4.2.

All poles which do not meet the requirement for a serviceable pole are to be considered for suitability for reinforcing (See clause 8.3).

Pole residual strength below

25%?

Reinforce / Replace Pole (CAT 1)

Pole Inspection Data

Yes

Pole meets minimum wall

thickness requirements?

Is the residual strength below

50%?

Pole is Serviceable

Yes

No

Pole suitable for reinforcement? Reinforce PoleYes

Yes

No

No

No

Replace Pole

See table below

Figure 8.2: Timber Pole Serviceability Flowchart



8.3 Reinforced nailed timber pole serviceability criteria Table 8.3 Reinforced nailed timber pole serviceability rules



Defective CAT1 Wall thickness between 200mm and 2m above ground is less than 30mm.

Replace with CAT 1 priority

Defective CAT4

Wall thickness is less than 30mm at 200mm or less than 60mm between 800mm and 2m above ground.


Serviceable Wall thickness at 200mm is 30mm or greater and wall thickness is 60mm or greater between 800mm and 2m above ground.

Nil – pole remains in service

8.4 Reinforced splinted timber pole serviceability criteria Table 8.4a Reinforced splinted timber pole serviceability rules



Defective CAT1 Residual strength of the pole is less than 25% and a dangerous situation will be created if pole head movement occurs as a result of below ground timber failure (see note below).


Defective CAT3

The splinted pole has either: An average pole wall thickness is less than that specified in Table 8.2 (b), or There is noticeable loss of steel from the below ground section of the splint (holes present in the splint or thinning of the steel - loss of metal).

Replace. with CAT 3 priority

There is pitted (ie. rust has caused loss of section) rust on a band or a band is loose.

Replace pole with CAT 3 priority

Serviceable The splinted pole has either: A residual strength less than 25% but no danger presented by pole head movement, or A residual strength greater than 25% and average wall thickness greater than specified in Table 8.2 (b).


Note to Table 8.4 (a): examples of a dangerous situation created if pole head movement occurs as a result of below ground timber failure include:

1. a pole situated alongside a busy road may endanger traffic if it were to lean towards the roadway

2. conductors crossing a road may be caught by traffic if clearances were reduced by pole head movement towards the roadway

3. conductor clearances to an adjacent building are reduced.



Table 8.4 Reinforced splinted timber pole minimum in-service wall thickness

Pole’s Ground Line Diameter (mm)

At 400mm below the top of the reinforcement, or at 800mm & 1000mm

above groundline

At bottom bands -200mm above groundline

Minimum (11% + 10mm) Minimum (6% + 10mm)

Less than 350 40 30

350 - 400 45 31

400 - 450 50 34

450 - 500 55 37

500 - 550 60 40

550 - 600 65 43

600 - 650 70 46

650 - 700 75 49

Greater than 700 80 52

8.5 Composite timber poles serviceability criteria Table 8.5: Composite timber pole serviceability rules



Defective CAT1

The composite pole has either: an internal defect greater than half the diameter of the pole inside or immediately above the caisson and the wall thickness is less than 40mm. active termites inside or immediately above the caisson. evidence of fungal decay inside or immediately above the caisson.


Defective CAT3

The composite pole has either: an internal defect greater than half the diameter of the pole inside or immediately above the caisson. all the inspection holes in the caisson have been used to carry out an internal inspection and there are no other inspection locations remaining.

Replace. with CAT 3 priority

Serviceable None of the limits above are met. Nil – pole remains in service



8.6 Steel poles serviceability criteria Table 8.6: Steel Pole Serviceability Rules



Defective CAT1

Perforations or folds due to rust at any location.

Secure site and Report immediately. Replace with CAT 1 priority.

Missing or severely damaged access covers, or loose or damaged attachments to poles, such as earthing connections.

Report immediately / site to be made safe. Repair where feasible or replace CAT 1.

Residual strength is less than 50%. Replace with CAT 1 priority.

Pole is leaning more than 10° and is leaning over the carriageway of a road either


Defective CAT2

The Pole has either: a flattened section of the column 50% or more of the diameter of the pole at that level. a bend at the site of an area of flattened section. corrosion extending below 350mm below groundline. scaling rust and Ausgrid specifies no remedial treatment.

Replace with CAT 2 priority.

Defective CAT4

Pole is leaning more than 10°. Remediate with CAT4 priority.

Serviceable Pole is free of above defects and has a residual strength greater than 50%.




8.6.1 Direct buried water pipe type 6.5m columns Table 8.6.1: Direct buried water pipe serviceability rules

Defect Description Reinforcing Sleeve Fitted?

Required Action/s

No Significant Rust can be scraped off No Clean pole – pole remains in service

Significant Rust can be scraped off – pole cannot be dented or perforated

No Attach sleeve - Clean pole – pole remains in service or

Compliant Sleeve Can Not be Fitted - Replace with CAT4 (Max 5 years) priority

Significant Rust can be scraped off – pole can be dented or perforated

No Where practicable attach compliant sleeve – Replace pole with CAT4 (Max 12 months) priority, or

Replace pole - Contract Officer to determine if emergency replacement is required with CAT1 priority

Pole dented or contains perforation above sleeve.

Yes Replace pole - Contract Officer to determine if emergency replacement is required with CAT1 priority

Rusted existing correctly fitted reinforcing sleeve

Yes Loss of surface area evident - Replace pole with CAT4 (max 12 Months) priority

No loss of surface area evident – Contract Officer to determine action with CAT1 priority

Rusted sleeve not installed to NS145 requirements – pole not dented of perforated above sleeve

Yes Replace pole with CAT4 (Max 12 months) priority

Notes:

1. Any perforation or folding of the pole above the sleeve or loss of metal to the reinforcement sleeve is a critical condition and may necessitate emergency replacement; and

2. Inspection of the pole below the sleeve should not be attempted as the additional excavation would increase the risk of the pole falling.



8.7 Concrete poles serviceability criteria Table 8.7: Concrete pole serviceability rules



Defective CAT1

The pole has either: a small area of missing, loose or weakened/softened concrete that penetrates into the pole beyond the steel reinf