This guideline aims to reduce the electrical hazard risks to water vessel users, to reduce the risk to power line and cable assets from contact by water vessels, and provide for national consistency in the assessment and management of power line crossings.

2021

Scope of guideline

It also aims to prompt consideration of how to manage the risks associated with non-powered
overhead cables. This guideline is primarily for the management of submarine cables and overhead power line crossings that may present risks to water vessel users. The focus is primarily on yachts as these vessels have been involved in most past contact events with power lines due to their high masts. The risk to power boats with nominal 1 – 2 m high whip aerials is managed by normal statutory line to ground (water) clearances. An additional, separate section outlines the factors to consider for management of the risks associated with non-powered overhead cables e.g. telecommunication cables.  There are shared risk management responsibilities between line owners and the relevant regulatory bodies. This guideline outlines processes for risk identification, management, mitigation, and consultation with affected parties. The guideline also covers the marking system for submarine cable crossings and ongoing maintenance of signage.

Development of this guideline

This guideline has been updated by Maritime New Zealand in consultation with representatives of the electricity supply industry, including the Electricity Engineers’ Association of New Zealand (EEA), to provide good practice advice. The broader electricity and supply industry, harbourmasters, port companies, Land Information New Zealand and the Telecommunications Forum were also consulted during the development of this guideline. This guideline supersedes the previous version published in 2006.