Can anyone please help as I have had conflicting answers. I really need to know what the safe vertical working distance is between machine and power line to guard against possibility of arcing - we are talking 11kv and 33kv lines. Any work at the moment involving this activity is carried out manually by post borer but looking at possiblity of acquiring bespoke post rammer machine.

The distances are; 9 metres horizontal distances between machine and base of wodden pole and 15 metres for metal towers.

I would speak to the national grid or the power supply company for a definitive answer The heights below are taken from the minimum heights for overhead power lines from the Sched 2 of the Electricity Supply Regs, I would assume that if you are outside these distances you would be ok, however as I say consult the energy supplier to be 100% correct Not exceeding 33,000 volts 5.8 metres Exceeding 33,000 volts but not exceeding 66,000 volts 6 metres Exceeding 66,000 volts but not exceeding 132,000 volts 6.7 metres Exceeding 132,000 volts but not exceeding 275,000 volts 7 metres Exceeding 275,000 volts but not exceeding 440,000 volts 7.3 metres Andy

Thanks everyone Been trying to get answers from elctricity company for yonks - the office I want is temporarily closed to support their power cut and emergency line due to high volume of work - you couldn't make it up!! I will persevere! Dave