Powerlink (advice agency) response - MCU2/0184

ATTACHMENT 1                                                                      Total of 3 Pages




14.    INTERFERENCE


       The applicant’s attention is drawn to s.230 of the Electricity Act 1994 (the "Act"), which
       provides that a person must not wilfully, and unlawfully interfere with an electricity
       entity’s works. "Works" are defined in s.12 (1) of the Act. The maximum penalty for
       breach of s.230 of the Act is a fine equal to 40 penalty units or up to 6 months
       imprisonmenf

15.    REMEDIAL ACTION


       Should remedial action be necessary by Powerlink as a result of the proposal, the
       applicant will be liable for all costs incurred.

16.    OWNERS USE OF LAND
       The owner may     use the easement land for any lawful purpose consistent with the

       terms of the registered easement; the conditions contained herein, the Electrical Safety
       Act 2002 and the Electrical Safety Regulations 2002.


17.    ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS


Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF)occur everywhere electricity is used (e.g. in homes and
offices) as well as where electricity is transported (electricity networks).

Powerlink recognises that there is community interest about Electric and Magnetic Fields.
We rely on expert advice on this matter from recognised health authorities in Australia and
around the world. In Australia, the Federal Government agency charged with responsibility
for regulation of EMFs is the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear safety Agency
(ARPANSA).ARPANSA’s Fact Sheet- Magnetic and Electric Fields from Power Lines,
concludes:


"Oil balance, the scientific evidence does not indicate that exposure to 50Hz EMF’s found
                                                                                    "
around the home, the office or near powerlines is a hazard to human health.


Whilst there is no scientifically proven causal link between EMF and human health, Powerlink
nevertheless follows an approach of "prudent avoidance" in the design and siting of new
powerlines. This includes seeking to locate new powerline easements away from houses,
schools and other buildings, where it is practical to do so and the added cost is modest.


The level of EMF decreases rapidly with distance from the source. EMF readings at the edge.
of a typical Powerlink easement are generally similar to those encountered by people in their
daily activities at home or at work. And in the case of most Powerlink lines, at about 100
metres from the line, the EMF level is so small that it cannot be measured.


Powerlink is a member of the ENA’s EMF Committee that monitors and compiles up-to-date
information about EMF on behalf of all electricity network businesses in Australia. This
includes subscribing to an international monitoring service that keeps the industry informed
about any new developments regarding EMF such as new research studies, literature and
research reviews, publications, and conferences.


We encourage community members with an interest in EMF to visit ARPANSA’s website:
www.arpansa.gov.aulnformation on EMF is also available on the ENA’s website:
www.ena.asn.au




Page 11 of 14 Management of Easement Co-use Requests Guideline   Updated 06 September 2010 Version 6.0