Overhead transmission

line routine inspection

MMI 0012

Amendment No 7
15 November 2019
Revision History
This standard replaces amendment no 6. All changes are highlighted in this
document with grey colouring.

Important Disclaimer
As the information contained in this publication is subject to change from time
to time, Endeavour Energy gives no warranty that the information is correct or
complete at the time of its use or is a definitive statement of procedures.
Endeavour Energy reserves the right to vary the content of this publication as
and when required. You should make independent inquiries to satisfy yourself
as to the correctness and accuracy of the content. Endeavour Energy is no
liable to any persons in respect of anything done or not done by any such
person in reliance, whether in whole or in part, on this document.

Copyright
This publication is copyright protected. No part of this document may be
reproduced by any process without the written permission of Endeavour
Energy, except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968.

Contact Information
The latest version of this document and other standards, are located on
Endeavour Energy’s standards website located at:
[Link]
ndards/Standards.
For any enquiries relating to the content of this document please contact the
Standards Coordinator on 13 10 81.

Document Control
Documentation content coordinator: Mains Assets Manager
Documentation process coordinator: Standards Process Coordinator

2
Contents
1 Documentation scope 5
2 References 5
3 Definitions and Abbreviations 6
4 General requirements 7
4.1 Authorisations 7
4.2 Duty of care 7
4.3 Inspection 7
4.4 Records and defects management 7
4.5 Critical feeders 7

5 Inspection cycles 8
6 Routine overhead line inspection 9
6.1 Steel tower structures 9
6.2 Pole structures 10
6.3 Crossarms 11
6.4 Conductors 11
6.5 Conductor hardware 12
6.6 Stay-wire system 13
6.7 Earthing system 13
6.8 Warning markers 14
6.9 Equipment attached to conductors or poles 15

7 Steel structure climbing inspection 16

8 Clearances 16
8.1 Vegetation clearances 16
8.2 Ground clearances 16

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9 Transmission access tracks 17
10 Waterway crossings 18
10.1 Waterway crossing signs 18
10.2 Waterway crossing clearances 18

11 Authorities and Responsibilities 19

12 Annexure 1 – Critical 132kV, 66kV and 33kV lines 20

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

1 Documentation scope
This Standard outlines the requirements for the routine inspection and maintenance of:

Ÿ Overhead transmission lines operating at voltages of 33kV and above; and

Ÿ Overhead pilot cables associated with protection and SCADA communication systems.

This instruction does not cover the requirements for:

Ÿ Below-ground condition inspections nor remaining strength analysis of timber and steel
transmission poles, which is detailed in MMI 0001;

Ÿ Requirements for defects found within Bushfire Prone Areas, which is defined in MMI 0034 and
MMI 0013;

Ÿ Maintenance data entry and defect prioritisation, which is detailed in SMI 124; nor

Ÿ Completing thermovision surveys of transmission overhead lines which is detailed in MMI 0032.

2 References
External Acts & Regulations
Electricity Supply Act 1995 (NSW)
Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2014
Work Health and Safety Act 2011
Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017

External Standards
ENA National Electricity Network Safety Code (Doc 01-2008)
ENA National Guidelines for aerial surveillance of overhead electricity networks (NENS 08-2006)
AS 6947: 2009 – Crossing of waterways by electricity infrastructure
AS/NZS 7000:2016 – Overhead line design – detailed procedures
NSW Maritime: Boaters’ Guide to Electricity cable crossings of NSW navigable waters

Company Policies and Procedures

Company Policy (Network) 9.1.5 – Network Waterway Crossings
Company Policy (Network) 9.9.1 – Network Asset Maintenance
Company Procedure (Network) GAM 0045 – Management of Network Crossings of Navigable
Waterways
Company Procedure (Network) GAM 0089 – Authorisations Governance and Management

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Company Policies and Procedures

Branch Form FAD 2001 – Notification of Network Alteration Sheet (White Sheet)
Branch Form FAT 0050 – Inspection checklist (Transmission access track assets)
Branch Form FAE 3115 – Waterway Crossings – Annual Inspection Report (Checklist)
Endeavour Energy Electrical Safety Rules

Company Standards
Environmental Management Standard EMS 0006 – Maintenance and construction of access
tracks
Mains Design Instruction MDI 0031 – Overhead line design
Mains Maintenance Instruction MMI 0001 – Pole and line inspection and treatment procedures
Mains Maintenance Instruction MMI 0013 – Vegetation clearance management
Mains Maintenance Instruction MMI 0032 – Thermovision of distribution and transmission lines
Mains Maintenance Instruction MMI 0034 – Pre-summer bushfire inspections
Substation Maintenance Instruction SMI 0124 – Maintenance data entry and defect prioritisation

3 Definitions and Abbreviations

Abbreviation Meaning
GIS Geographic information system

Term Definition
Full detailed line inspection of overhead mains assets in accordance with
Full overhead line this instruction. Condition of line and associated assets is examined either
inspection from ground level with the use of visual aids, such as stabilised binoculars,
and/or with the use of aerial and/or vehicle patrols.
Steel structure
Steel structure is climbed with the line energised and the condition of the
climbing
structure, line and associated assets is examined.
inspection
Process by which thermal imaging infrared equipment is used to survey
overhead transmission lines to examine the temperature rise of joints,
Thermovision terminations and defects of the associated equipment, including detection
of a low/zero insulation insulator in the system. Also known as infra-red
survey.
Ellipse Endeavour Energy’s asset database
A location when any of the following are within 100m of Endeavour
Energy’s assets:
Ÿ School grounds and children’s playgrounds;
Special Location
Ÿ Public swimming pool, popular beaches, water recreation areas, or
Ÿ a public thoroughfare.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

4 General requirements
Inspection of all overhead transmission lines is to be carried out in accordance with this instruction.

4.1 Authorisations
These instructions must be carried out only by persons authorised by Endeavour Energy in accordance
with Company Procedure GAM 0089 – Authorisations Governance and Management.

4.2 Duty of care

Inspectors are to display a duty of care to the public and Endeavour Energy staff during routine
inspections. In the instance that a potential safety issue is identified, it is the inspector’s responsibility to
correct the issue if possible; make the situation safe and to report the matter for further corrective action if
necessary.

4.3 Inspection
Inspections are to be carried out, with the mains energised, while observing safe working procedures and
clearances. The inspection is to include the repair of simple defects that can be easily and safely rectified
during the inspection.

This instruction provides guidance on what to inspect for each component within an overhead transmission
line based on historical occurrence. Inspections do not need to be constrained to the items categorically
described in this instruction. If any other defects are identified during the routine inspection, these must be
reported for corrective action.

4.4 Records and defects management

All defects identified must be entered in Endeavour Energy’s asset database after the completion of the
respective inspection.

These defects are to be prioritised in accordance with SMI 124 - Maintenance data entry and defect
prioritisation.

In the event of uncertainty over the prioritisation of a particular defect, clarification must be sought from the
Regional Transmission Manager.

Alterations to the inspection map or structure number which may be required to improve the accuracy of
the data in GIS is to be recorded on Branch Form FAD 2001 - Notification of Network Alteration Sheet
(White Sheet) and submitted to Asset Metering & Data Branch.

4.5 Critical feeders

The list of critical feeders can be found in Annexure 1: Critical 132kV, 66kV and 33kV lines. Feeders may
be added to this list with the approval of the Mains Assets Manager, in consultation with the Network
Security Manager and Regional Transmission Managers.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

5 Inspection cycles
Inspections must be carried out on poles, steel tower structures and all visible pilot cables for 132kV, 66kV
and 33kV line components at the intervals shown in Table 1 below.
Table 1 – Inspection intervals
Overhead
transmission Inspection Inspection interval Reference
line asset
Access track patrol (including
inspection of network structures 1.5 years Clause 9
Critical 132kV, 66kV
on access track)
and 33kV lines*
Full overhead line inspection 3 years Clause 6

Access track patrol (including

inspection of network structures 1.5 years Clause 9
on access track)
132kV steel tower
lines Full overhead line inspection 3 years Clause 6

Steel structure climbing inspection 6 years Clause 7

Access track patrol (including

inspection of network structures 2.5 years Clause 9
All other 132kV,
on access track)
66kV and 33kV lines
Full overhead line inspection 5 years Clause 6

In conjunction with
Pilot cables Inspection Clause 6
full OHL inspection

132kV lines Thermovision survey 4 years Refer MMI 0032

Critical 132kV, 66kV

Thermovision survey 2 years Refer MMI 0032
and 33kV lines *
All transmission lines
located within Pre-summer (bushfire) patrol 1 year Refer MMI 0034
bushfire prone areas
Structures in special
Step and touch potential test 12 years Clause 6.7
locations
First and last 2 km of
Earthing resistance test 12 years Clause 6.7
all lines
UG/OH terminations
Inspection 1 year Clause 6.9.2
and poles

Inspection of warning signs 1 year Clause 10

Waterway crossings
Measurement of line clearances 4.5 years Clause 10
* For the current list of critical feeders refer to Annexure 1

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

6 Routine overhead line inspection

The following sections describe the routine above ground inspections and observations that must be
carried out for all 132kV, 66kV and 33kV lines, components and visible pilot cables. The inspection must
report any instances where the construction of the lines does not meet minimum statutory construction
standards.

6.1 Steel tower structures

The condition of the steel structure is to be inspected and reported, and any necessary minor maintenance
works undertaken. Table 2 describes the inspection tasks applicable at steel tower structures.

Table 2 – Steel tower structure inspections

Steel Tower Structure

Inspection Task
Steelwork Foundation Label

Check for and replace any missing or bent members X

Report number of rusted members X
Report the paint condition of the painted body/steel members X
Check for and remove any external objects attached to the
structure which will affect the safety and/or reliability of the X X
system such as bird’s nests, vines and tree branches, etc.
Check and remove (where possible) all the soil/mud located
X X
on top of the steelwork.
Check for and report any missing or damaged anti-climbing
X X
devices and warning signs
Check for and report any easily accessible loose nuts and
X X
bolts on the structure (tighten where possible)
Report damaged or cracked foundations (above ground) X
Report heavy foundation settlement X
Check for and replace missing feeder numbers on the upper
portion of the double circuit structure (located immediately X
below the lower crossarm).
Check for and re-label missing or wrong feeder and structure
X
numbers.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

6.2 Pole structures

The condition of pole structures must be inspected and reported as detailed by Table 3 below:
Table 3 – Pole structure inspections
Pole structure
Inspection Task
Steel Concrete Wood

Vertical alignment X X X
Damage as a result of vehicle or other impact X X X
Lightning damage X X X
Fire damage X X X
Change in ground line profile due to filling, excavation or
X X X
erosion
Foreign objects attached to the structure, such as birds’
X X X
nests or vines
Broken strands and rust condition associated with the
X X X
earth bond
Missing or incorrect feeder number labels, structure
X X X
number labels, and any other utility joint use markers
Loose nuts and bolts on the structure. Tighten where
X X X
possible.
Missing or loose pole cap X X X
Rust and/or discolouration of steel X
Integrity of the anti-corrosion barrier, if fitted X
Corrosion or exposure of steel reinforcement X
Spalling of concrete and excessive cracks/fractures X
Excessive splits of wood, particularly at the pole top X
Pole top fire X
Termite attack X
Rotting of the pole top X
Loose sapwood X
Multiple or large knot holes X
Heavy rust on pole reinforcement components X

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

6.3 Crossarms
The condition of crossarms must be inspected and reported as detailed by Table 4 below:

Table 4 – Crossarm inspections

Crossarms
Inspection task
Timber Steel
Rotting X
Splitting, cracking or major holes X
Fire damage X X
Lightning damage X X
Alignment and/or warping X X
Buckled or loose braces and kings bolt X X
Rust X

6.4 Conductors
The condition of phase conductors, earth wires and overhead pilot cable systems must be inspected and
reported as detailed by Table 5 below:

Table 5 – Conductors, earth wires and pilot cable system inspections

Conductors
Inspection Task
Phase Conductors Earth Wire Pilot Cable

Broken Strands / Broken conductor (or catenary

X X X
wire if applicable)
Twisting and/or bird caging on the conductors X X X
Low conductor clearance X X X
Unbalanced sags or excessive sagging between
X X
phases and/or conductors.
Heavy rust and/or heavy corrosion on the
X X X
conductors (or catenary wire if available)
Significant wear and/or burn marks X X
Grease dripping from the ACSR conductor. X
Damage to the outer serving. X
Cracked cable insulation. X
Broken or loose mounting brackets X
Loose support on both conductor and joint box X

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

6.5 Conductor hardware

6.5.1 Insulators
The condition of the insulators must be inspected and reported, including:

Ÿ Broken or chipped insulators;

Ÿ Cracks on the insulators;

Ÿ Flashover and burn marks;

Ÿ Burnt/flashover marks on the arc rod or arc horn;

Ÿ Heavy pollution or fungus growth on the surface of the insulator;

Ÿ Bent, leaning or obviously loose insulators; and

Ÿ Rusty insulator pins.

6.5.2 Conductor fittings

The condition of the conductor clamps, joints and the various fitting arrangements associated with
conductors and earth wires must be inspected and reported, including:

Ÿ Loose bolts and nuts on the conductor clamp;

Ÿ Rust on the conductor spacer and clamp;

Ÿ Discolouration of deadends, tension and non-tension joints;

Ÿ Conductor slip at the conductor clamp, conductor spacer and vibration damper;

Ÿ Damaged/broken or loose armour rod wires;

Ÿ Broken strands near the dead end, suspension clamp and conductor spacer;

Ÿ Insufficient clearance, twisted conductors on the jumper conductors connected between deadends
on angle or section structures;

Ÿ Conductor slipping out of the groove of the supporting insulator or the conductor clamp;

Ÿ Severe wearing on the clamp, conductor spacer and any supporting hardware;

Ÿ Broken tie wires; and

Ÿ If vibration dampers are installed on both phase and earth wire conductors on the feeder.

6.5.3 Conductor spacers

The condition of spacers on all bundled conductor transmission lines must be observed closely from the
ground with the aid of stabilised binoculars. In addition to the requirements outlined above, all non-cast
spacers (for example: helical spacers or wire wrap-on spacers) must be observed for:

Ÿ Deformation;

Ÿ Broken strands; or

Ÿ Friction damage on either the spacer or phase conductor.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

A closer inspection must be carried out with the use of an EWP where spacers are found to be:

Ÿ Broken;

Ÿ With major deformation; or

Ÿ Doubt exists as to the integrity of the conductor.

Alternatively, inspection of the spacers may be done by using a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle), to
access sites that cannot be reached by an EWP and record the condition of the spacer using high quality
digital imagery.

Where spacers are found to have major deformation and no conductor damage, the spacers are to be
replaced with the new style cast units.

In situations where the damaged spacer has caused further damage to the conductor through abrasion, a
repair to the conductor will be required before the spacer can be replaced.

Where the damage to the conductor is minor, the repair may be completed by wrapping on a preformed
repair rod. Where the damage is more extensive, full tension compression sleeves must be used.

Minor damage is defined as follows:

Ÿ 6//4.75 + 7/1.60 ACSR, 6/1.86 + 7/0.62 ACSR or 7/4.5 AAC – a maximum of two (2) outer strands
broken

Ÿ 19/3.25 AAC or 19/4.75 AAC – a maximum of four (4) outer strands broken.

6.6 Stay-wire system

The condition of the stay wire system must be inspected and reported, including:

Ÿ Rusted and broken strands on the stay wire;

Ÿ Loose earth anchor, lack of earth coverage and significant earth settlement;

Ÿ Termite and rot attach on the wooden stay pole;

Ÿ Stay wires slack or unbalanced forces applied to the stay wires;

Ÿ Condition and correct installation of stay wire insulator; and

Ÿ Condition of cattle guards (in rural areas).

6.7 Earthing system

The general condition of the earthing system (from top to bottom of the structure) must be visually
inspected and reported, which includes:

Ÿ Checking for broken strands, rusty condition of earth bond and down lead;

Ÿ Checking and tightening all loose connections associated with the earthing system;

Ÿ Checking the earth wire batten for security and degradation of timber;

Ÿ Checking for burn marks on the earthing system;

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Ÿ Checking for rust and/or corrosion on connections located near the ground level of the steel
towers and wooden poles;

Ÿ Checking the condition of the exposed earth strap; and

Ÿ Checking for theft or vandalism of any part of the earthing system.

The earthing resistance of structures within the first and last 2km of all feeders is critical in the prevention
of substation damage caused by lightning. Therefore, the earthing resistance of all such structures must
be tested every 12 years and must be less than 10 Ohms.

Additionally, the earthing systems of structures in special locations must be tested every 12 years for step
and touch potentials.

6.8 Warning markers

The location of the aerial markers balls and over crossing markers is to be compared with that shown on
the printed maps from GIS and the Toughbook hand-held computers. Any marker ball that is found in the
field and not shown on GIS is to be recorded on Branch Form FAD 2001 – Notification of Network
Alteration Sheet (White Sheet) and submitted to Asset Metering & Data for inclusion in GIS.

6.8.1 Aerial marker balls

Aerial marker balls are installed on overhead lines of all voltages to provide a visual alarm to aircraft and
river craft, and to act as a general warning to plant and vehicles that overhead powerlines are nearby.

Aerial marker balls must be installed near:

Ÿ Aircraft landing fields;

Ÿ On all new and refurbished river crossings; and

Ÿ On property where high vehicles/plant operates.

Refer to MDI 0031 – Overhead line design for additional details of locations where aerial marker balls are
required to be installed.

The condition of marker balls is to be observed through stabilised binoculars; focussing on:

Ÿ The mounting of the balls to confirm that they are securely fastened;

Ÿ The colour of the ball has not faded and remains clearly visible; and

Ÿ To check that no damage has occurred to the conductor.

A defect must be raised for replacement within one (1) month if any marker ball is found to be:

Ÿ Not securely fastened;

Ÿ Faded or not clearly visible;

Ÿ Damaged; or

Ÿ In the wrong location or missing.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

6.8.2 Over crossing markers

In locations in which overhead lines cross (over or under) each other (on feeders that may be subject to
aerial inspection), line crossing markers must be installed.

The crossing markers must be installed, facing away from the crossing on the second and third structures
either side of the crossings location. Where it is identified that these markers are not to be installed, a
defect must be raised and a marker installed within one (1) month.

6.9 Equipment attached to conductors or poles

The condition of equipment attached to poles must be inspected and reported as detailed by Table 6.

Table 6 – Pole equipment inspections

Air break Isolating Load break
Inspection Task Recloser
switch link switch

Contact alignment X X

Deterioration and loose of connections X X X X

Discolouration of contacts X X

Burn/flashover mark or crack on the surface

X X X X
of the insulator

Operation shaft, joints and pivots X

Condition of the earth system including

connections, conductors, batten, earth mat (if X X X X
installed) and stand-off insulator (if installed)

Oil leaks on the tank X

Low SF6 gas pressure X X

Rust or corrosion on the tank X X

6.9.1 Surge diverter

The condition of the surge arrester must be inspected and reported, including:

Ÿ Damage, melting, discolouration or cracks on the casing;

Ÿ Signs of flash over;

Ÿ Signs of overheating on the connections;

Ÿ Loose connections; and

Ÿ Poor earthing connections.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

6.9.2 Underground to overhead cable terminations

All UG/OH cable terminations and UG/OH poles must be inspected every 12 months. Particular attention
must be given to confirm the base of UG/OH poles, including the location behind the cable guard, is clear
of scrub and long grass, and the like.

6.9.3 Distribution voltage equipment

On poles that carry transmission and distribution voltage, any defects observed on the distribution voltage
line components must have a defect raised and priority assigned in accordance with SMI 124 -
Maintenance data entry and defect prioritisation.

6.9.4 Line fault indicator

The line fault battery status indicator must be inspected. A defect must be raised if a battery replacement
is required.

The location of the line fault indicator is to be compared with that shown on the printed maps from GIS and
the Toughbook hand-held computers. Any line fault indicator that is found in the field and not shown on
GIS is to be recorded on Branch Form FAD 2001 – Notification of Network Alteration Sheet (White Sheet)
and submitted to the Asset Metering & Data for inclusion in GIS.

7 Steel structure climbing inspection

The condition of the tower and the associated hardware must be inspected and reported, including:

Ÿ Steel structure must be inspected as set out in Clause 6.1

Ÿ Insulators must be inspected as set out in Clause 6.5.1

Ÿ Phase conductors and earth wires must be inspected as set out in Clause 6.4

Ÿ Clamps, joints and fixing arrangements associated with the phase conductors and earth wires
must be inspected as set out in Clause 6.5.2

Ÿ Earthing system must be inspected as set out in Clause 6.7

Ÿ Overhead pilot cable system must be inspected as set out in Clause 6.4

8 Clearances
8.1 Vegetation clearances
Overhead lines must be inspected for adequate clearance from trees in accordance with MMI 0013 –
Vegetation clearance management.

8.2 Ground clearances

Minimum conductor clearances from the ground must be checked to be in accordance with MDI 0031 –
Overhead line design. Where doubt exists, measurement must be carried out to ascertain that in-service
ground clearances are maintained as specified by Table 14 in MDI 0031 – Overhead line design.

Refer to MMI 001 - Pole and line inspection and treatment procedures for further information on the
prioritisation of ground clearance defects.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

9 Transmission access tracks

Transmission access tracks must be maintained in accordance with EMS 0006 – Maintenance and
construction of access tracks. Identified access track defects are to be entered into Endeavour Energy’s
asset database.

Table 7 outlines typical access track defects that must be inspected and recorded.

Table 7 – Access track inspections

Access Track Area Inspection Task

Ÿ Access track is clear of vegetation to a minimum of four (4) metres in

Vegetation
width and four (4) metres in height above groundline.
Ÿ Provision for an eight (8) metre diameter turning circle; or
Turning circles Ÿ Availability of an appropriate reversing bay to enable maintenance
vehicles to turn at the end of tracks.
Ÿ Track surfaces must be suitable for safe all weather 4WD vehicle
Surface conditions
access
Ÿ Check that water is being diverted off track.
Surface drainage
Ÿ Check for surface erosion on the access track.
Ÿ Check that cross banks are appropriately formed and appropriately
spaced. Check that water is not ponding at the base of the cross bank
and/or depressions have not formed at the crown.
Ÿ Check that cross drains are free from debris and excess silt and that
Drainage structures the outfall points are stable.
Ÿ Check table drains are not eroding or overflowing.
Ÿ Check that mitre drains are free from debris and excess silt, that water
flows are not bypassing the drains, and that the drain is stable.
Ÿ Check that outlets and discharge points are not blocked or eroding.

Batters Ÿ Check batters are not unstable or slumping.

Ÿ Check culverts are not blocked or overflowing.

Ÿ Check the culvert is not cracked or damaged and the inlet and outlet
points are stable.
Water crossings Ÿ Check that fords (concrete and rock causeways) are not impeding or
diverting water flows. Check that the entry and egress is not actively
eroding.
Ÿ Check that bridge structures appear stable and undamaged.
Ÿ Check whether silt traps or sediment control (fences and coir logs)
Erosion and
require desilting.
sediment control
Ÿ Check sediment control points are stabilised and/or revegetated
Ÿ Check that access gates can be easily opened and closed. Locks
Access gates should be lubricated with dry graphite powder with the lock opened and
closed to allow the powder to penetrate the lock.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

10 Waterway crossings
10.1 Waterway crossing signs
Signs for all navigable waterway crossings must be inspected annually. The signs must be maintained in
good order so that they are visible at all times to vessels in the area at least 100 metres prior to the
crossing.

Inspections are to be completed each year and where it is identified that there are signs that require
maintenance, a defect must be raised, and a priority assigned in accordance with Annexure 9: Defect
Prioritisation MMI 0001 - Pole and line inspection and treatment procedures.

10.2 Waterway crossing clearances

Waterway crossing clearances must be measured every 4.5 years. This will include:

Ÿ OLI inspection of the crossing span and supporting poles

Ÿ GLI inspection and treatment of the supporting poles.

Check the conductor clearance for the crossing span. The height of conductors must be measured at the
lowest point of the crossing span over water. This will require the use of a suitable boat and an insulated
height stick or other accurate height measuring device. The height measured must be greater than the
height shown on the warning sign, plus the safe working clearance of 2.5 metres of voltages up to 33kV,
and three (3) metres for voltages up to 132kV.

The results of both the waterway crossing signs and clearance measurements must be recorded on the
Waterways Inspection Checklist form FAE 3115 – Waterway Crossings – Annual Inspection Report
(Checklist) and entered into Ellipse.

Where a new navigable waterway crossing or a modification to an existing crossing is proposed, the
crossing must be designed in accordance with the requirements of MDI 0031 – Overhead line design and
the NSW Maritime: Boaters’ guide to electricity cable crossings of NSW navigable waters.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

11 Authorities and Responsibilities

Position Authority/ Responsibility

General Manager Asset

Ÿ Approving this instruction including any variations
Management

Ÿ Approving this instruction for minor changes; and

Manager Asset Standards &
Design Ÿ Making recommendations to General Manager Asset
Management for major changes in respect to this instruction.

Ÿ Keeping the contents of this instruction up to date; and

Mains Assets Manager
Ÿ Reviewing the list of critical feeders

Ÿ Approving additional feeders being added to the list of critical

feeders;
Ÿ Meeting the requirements of this instruction;
Regional Transmission
Managers, Network Ÿ Confirming that Endeavour Energy employees and/or contractors
Operations engaged to perform the work have appropriate qualifications and
are competent to carry out the work; and
Ÿ Providing updated information on feeders that are to be inspected,
patrolled and/or surveyed.

Ÿ Meeting the requirements of this instruction when carrying out

maintenance works on access tracks;
Program Director Ÿ Confirming that Endeavour Energy employees and/or contractors
Maintenance, Network engaged to perform work on access tracks have appropriate
Development qualifications and are competent to carry out the work; and
Ÿ Providing updated information on transmission access tracks that
are to be inspected, patrolled and/or surveyed.

OLI/GLI Manager, Network Ÿ Verifying that the below ground condition of all wooden
Development transmission poles is assessed.

Ÿ Meeting the requirements of this instruction;

Ÿ Working in accordance with local and statutory requirements;
Ÿ Upholding a high level of public safety;
Endeavour Energy
Employees and/or Ÿ Working in accordance with Endeavour Energy’s Electrical Safety
Contractors Rules;
Ÿ Updating Endeavour Energy’s asset database; and
Ÿ Communicating defects found on the transmission lines to the
relevant Regional Transmission Manager.

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

12 Annexure 1 – Critical 132kV, 66kV and 33kV lines

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

7905 33 Central (b) Fairfax Lane TS SW 73410

7905/1 33 Central (b) Berrima Junction ZS SW 73410 Tee SW 73409

7905/2 33 Central (b) SW 73409 Blue Circle Cement HVC Tee SW 73411

7906 33 Central (f) Ringwood ZS Moss Vale ZS

7910 33 Central (b) Mittagong ZS Tycan HVC Tee Tyree HVC Tee SW 33918

7911 33 Central (f) SW 53904 (A3904) SW 53905 (L3905)

7914 33 Central (f) SW 53905 (L3905) SW 53906 (L3906)

7915 33 Central (b) SW 53906 (L3906) Avon Dam HVC Tee Nepean Dam HVC

7916 33 Central (b) SW 53907 (L3907) Avon Dam HVC

7923 33 Central (b) SW 33918 (R3918) SW 53919 (A3919) & SW 53904 (A3904)

Marubeni 1 33 Central (b) Guildford TS Marubeni Gas Turbine Gen 1

Marubeni 2 33 Central (b) Guildford TS Marubeni Gas Turbine Gen 2

Marubeni 3 33 Central (b) Guildford TS Marubeni Gas Turbine Gen 3

Marubeni 4 33 Central (b) Guildford TS Marubeni Steam Turbine Gen 4

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MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

763 33 Central (b) Guildford TS Smithfield ZS Tee Visy Paper HVC

745 33 Central (d) West Wetherill Park TS Smithfield ZS Tee Bossley Park ZS

303 33 Central (b) Cawdor ZS Oakdale ZS Tee The Oaks ZS

522 33 Central (d) Bonnyrigg ZS Old Canley Vale ZS Tee New Canley Vale ZS

505 33 Central (d) West Liverpool TS Anzac Village ZS Tee Casula ZS Tee Prestons ZS

517 33 Central (d) West Liverpool TS Homepride ZS Tee Cabramatta ZS

512 33 Central (d) West Liverpool TS Kemps Creek ZS Tee Bringelly ZS

524 33 Central (c) West Liverpool TS Prestons ZS

845 66 Central (d) Maldon ZS Tahmoor ZS Tee Xstrata Coal HVC

862 66 Central (c) Ingleburn TG Minto ZS

863 66 Central (c) Ingleburn TG Minto ZS

866 66 Central (c) Ingleburn TG Bow Bowing ZS

Appin ZS Tee Appin Power Station & BHP Colliery

868 66 Central (d) Douglas Pk SS HVC Tee Broughton Pass HVC Tee Westcliff
Colliery HVC
Tower Power Station & BHP Tower Colliery HVC
869 66 Central (d) Douglas Pk SS
Tee Wilton ZS

870 66 Central (c) Nepean TS Narellan ZS

21
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

Camden ZS Tee Douglas Park substation BHP
85G 66 Central (b) Douglas Pk SS
HVC
Douglas Park SS Tee Macarthur TG Tee Tower
852 66 Central (b) Nepean TS
Colliery Air Shaft HVC

853 66 Central (d) Macarthur TG Ambarvale ZS

861 66 Central (d) Narellan ZS Minto ZS

85T 66 Central (d) Campbelltown ZS Kentlyn ZS

429 33 North (c) Blacktown TS Leabons Lane ZS

467 33 North (c) Blacktown TS Leabons Lane ZS

454 33 North (c) Penrith TS Emu Plains ZS

Doonside ZS Tee Newton ZS Tee Quakers Hill ZS

450 33 North (c) Blacktown TS
Tee Doonside ZS

460 33 North (b) East Prospect ZS ABC Tissues HVC

424 33 North (d) North Richmond ZS Kurrajong ZS Tee Glossodia ZS

437 33 North (b) Wisemans ZS Cattai ZS

439 33 North (c) Hawkesbury TS Glossodia ZS

North Richmond ZS Tee Kurrajong ZS Tee

452 33 North (d) Hawkesbury TS
Richmond ZS

452/1 33 North (d) SW A089 Richmond ZS

22
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

453 33 North (d) Hawkesbury TS Kurrajong ZS Tee SW 39588

458 33 North (d) Hawkesbury TS Riverstone ZS Tee Cattai ZS

458/1 33 North (d) SW 39588 Riverstone ZS Tee Cattai ZS

471 33 North (c) Baulkham Hills TS Jasper Rd ZS

478 33 North (c) Baulkham Hills TS Northmead ZS

480 33 North (c) Baulkham Hills TS Northmead ZS Tee North Rocks ZS

484 33 North (c) Baulkham Hills TS Jasper Rd ZS

490 33 North (c) Mt Druitt TS St Marys ZS

491 33 North (c) Mt Druitt TS St Marys ZS

497 33 North (b) Werrington ZS SW D853

497/1 33 North (b) SW D853 Sims Metal HVC Tee SW E101

497/2 33 North (b) SW E101 Cambridge Park ZS

451/1 33 North (b) SW 97008 Jordan Springs ZS (Mobile No.1)

476 33 North (a) Kenthurst ZS Kellyville ZS

804 66 North (b) Katoomba North TS Katoomba ZS Tee SW 14023 Tee SW T035

804/1 66 North (b) Lawson TS SW T034

23
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

804/2 66 North (b) Wentworth Falls ZS SW T034 Tee SW T035

805 66 North (b) Katoomba North TS Katoomba ZS Tee Blackheath ZS Tee SW 14023

Springvale Colliery HVC Tee Coal PAC Colliery

811 66 North (b) Wallerawang TG
HVC Tee SW X250
Clarance Colliery HVC Tee Springvale Colliery HVC
811/2 66 North (b) SW X250
Tee Springvale No.3 shaft HVC

812 66 North (b) Clarance Colliery HVC SW T041

817 66 North (b) Wallerawang TG SW 18017

817/1 66 North (b) Wallerawang TG Meadow Flat ZS

817/2 66 North (b) SW 18017 Lithgow ZS

835 66 North (b) My Piper TG Coal Pac Invincible Colliery HVC

835/2 66 North (b) Blackmans Flat ZS SW U804

839 66 North (b) Kandos ZS Bylong ZS

840 66 North (b) Blackmans Flat ZS Baalbone Colliery HVC and Centennial HVC

841 66 North (f) Ilford Hall ZS Kandos ZS

Portland ZS Tee Airly Colliery HVC Tee Hyrock

828 66 North (f) Mt Piper TS HVC Tee Centennial Coal HVC Tee Centennial
Carbon HVC Tee Ilford TS
Arndell Park ZS Tee Quakers Hill ZS Tee Onesteel
220 132 North (d) Blacktown TS
Steel Mill HVC

24
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

237 132 North (b) Sydney West TG North Onesteel Steel Mill HVC

Arndell Park ZS Tee Quakers Hill ZS Tee Rooty Hill

239 132 North (d) Blacktown TS
ZS

938 132 North (b) Vineyard TG Rouse Hill SS

940 132 North (b) Wallerawang TG Katoomba North TS Tee Warrimoo TS

941 132 North (b) Wallerawang TG Katoomba North TS Tee Lawson TS

942 132 North (d) Lawson TS Old Penrith TS

988 132 North (b) Dapto TG Fairfax lane TS Tee Burrawang Pump Station HVC

93E 132 North (d) Old Penrith TS Warrimoo TS

9JA 132 North (b) Vineyard TG Rouse Hill SS

7161 33 South (b) Unanderra ZS Orrcon HVC

7009 33 South (b) Mt Terry TS Jerrara ZS Tee Jamberoo SS

7006 33 South (b) SW 73309 Jerrara SS

SW 73326 Tee Figtree ZS Tee West Wollongong

7015 33 South (f) SW 79473
ZS

7016 33 South (c) Springhill TS Unanderra ZS

7021 33 South (f) Bellambi TS Mt Ousley ZS Tee SW 73303

25
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

7028 33 South (g) Bellambi TS Helensburgh ZS

7043 33 South (b) Mt Terry TS SW 61691

7091 33 South (f), (b) Figtree ZS Dendrobium Mine HVC Tee SW 35057

7091/1 33 South (g), (b) Dendrobium Mine HVC SW 35057 Tee SW 90697

7092 33 South (f), (g), (b) SW 90697 SW 66092

7092/1 33 South (g), (b) SW 66092 SW 52415

7092/2 33 South (g), (b) SW 52415 SW 52416

7092/3 33 South (g), (b) SW 52416 SW 52418

7093 33 South (g), (b) SW 52417 SW 66727

7093/1 33 South (g), (b) SW 66727 Cordeaux Dam No.1

7094 33 South (g), (b) SW 66727 SW 73347 Tee Cordeaux Dam HVC

7095 33 South (f), (g), (b) SW 73347 SW 79473 Tee BHP Cordeaux Colliery SS HVC

7099 33 South (b) Springhill TS NRE Gujarai Wongawilli Mine HVC

7012 33 South (c) Springhill TS Unanderra ZS

7017 33 South (c), (b) Springhill TS SW 73318

7117 33 South (c), (b) SW 73318 Kembla Grange ZS Tee SW 91828

26
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

7217 33 South (b) SW 91828 Wyuna Waters HVC

7120 33 South (c) Unanderra ZS Dapto ZS

7252 33 South (g) Darkes Forest ZS SW 25639

7252/1 33 South (g) SW 25639 Tee SW 70660 SW 25640

7252/2 33 South (g) SW 25640 Wombarra ZS

7252/3 33 South (g) SW 70660 Helensburgh ZS

7253 33 South (g) Darkes Forest ZS Helensburgh ZS

7253/1 33 South (g) SW 64877 Helensburgh ZS

7293 33 South (f) Bulli ZS Russel Vale ZS

7341 33 South (c) Kembla Grange ZS Dapto ZS

7505 33 South (c) Shoalhaven TS Bomaderry ZS

7501 33 South (b), (c) Shoalhaven TS SW 27293 Tee SW 33531

7523 33 South (f) SW 33526 SW 33527

7535 or (7501/1) 33 South (f), (c), (b) SW 33531 SW 33532

7532 33 South (f) SW 33516 SW 33521

7540 33 South (f), (b) SW 27293 SW 35254

27
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

7540/1 33 South (f), (b) SW 35254 New Burrier Shoalhaven City Council HVC

7502 33 South (b) Shoalhaven TS SW 93734

7516 33 South (f) Manildra SS SW 33504 Tee SW 81719

7517 33 South (b) SW 93734 Bolong ZS Tee SW 33506

7522 33 South (f), (b) SW 35174 SW 33525 Tee SW 33526

7536 33 South (f), (b) SW 33506 Shoalhaven Paper Mill HVC Tee SW 33504

7538 33 South (f) Yatte Yattah ZS SW 33523 Tee SW 33527 Tee SW 33521

7504 33 South (d) Shoalhaven TS SW 33524 Tee South Nowra ZS

7508 33 South (b) Shoalhaven TS SW 90522

7528 33 South (b) SW 90522 Culburra ZS Tee SW 73075 Tee SW 33536

7542 33 South (b) SW 33536 Brundee Pumps HVC

7509 33 South (f), (b) Shoalhaven TS SW 92567

7521 33 South (f), (b) SW 67766 Huskisson ZS Tee SW 33541

7518 33 South (b) SW 33541 SW 33525

7525 33 South (b) SW 35174 SW 33519 Tee SW 35172

7526 33 South (b) SW 33519 Sussex Inlet ZS

28
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

7510 33 South (c), (b) Bomaderry ZS SW 66737

7511 33 South (f), (b) SW 66737 SW 33539 Tee SW 33501

7512 33 South (f), (b) SW 33539 SW 33508

7513 33 South (f), (b) SW 33508 Kangaroo Valley ZS

7514 33 South (f), (b) SW 33501 SW 33505 Tee SW 27291

7514/1 33 South (f), (b) SW 26794 SW 33505

7515 33 South (f), (b) SW 27291 Berry ZS

98E 132 South (g) Bellambi TS Waterfall TG

913/2B 132 South (g) Bellambi TS Waterfall TG

98F 132 South (e), (c) Dapto TG Mt Terry TS

98H 132 South (e) Evans Lane SS Moruya North ZS (Essential Energy)

98J 132 South (e) Evans Lane SS Shoalhaven TS

98L 132 South (e), (c) Shoalhaven TS Mt Terry TS

98M 132 South (e) Evans Lane SS Batemans Bay ZS (Essential Energy)

98P 132 South (e) Evans Lane SS Shoalhaven TS

98U 132 South (e), (c) Shoalhaven TS Mt Terry TS

29
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

98W 132 South (e), (c) Dapto TG Mt Terry TS

980 132 South (d) Dapto TG Bellambi TS

981 132 South (d) Dapto TG Bellambi TS

985 132 South (d) Springhill TS Outer Harbour TS

989 132 South (d) Springhill TS Outer Harbour TS

7010 33 South (h) Springhill TS Port Kembla ZS

7013 33 South (h) Springhill TS Port Kembla ZS

7014 33 South (h) Springhill TS West Wollongong ZS

7026 33 South (h) Bellambi TS Bulli ZS

7027 33 South (h) Bellambi TS Russell Vale ZS

7030 33 South (h) Bellambi TS Corrimal ZS

7050 33 South (h) Mount Terry TS Jerrara SS

7175 33 South (h) Jerrara SS SW 73322

7176 33 South (h) Berry ZS SW 73323

7291 33 South (h) South Bulli SS Russell Vale ZS

7292 33 South (h) Corrimal ZS Russell Vale ZS

30
MMI 0012 – Overhead transmission line routine inspection

Feeder Voltage Region Criteria From To

7302 33 South (h) SW 73303 SW 73326

7321 33 South (h) Port Central ZS Port Kembla ZS

7503 33 South (h) Shoalhaven TS Nowra ZS

7506 33 South (h) Shoalhaven TS Nowra ZS

7519 33 South (h) Huskisson ZS SW 33524

*Critical factors for selecting transmission feeders:

(a) Feeder exceeding thermal rating under normal operating conditions.

(b) Radial feeder supply to zone substation or HVC (inclusive of issues relating to common easements/structures).
(c) Single contingency feeder outage resulting in other feeders being loaded over firm capacity.
(d) Single feeder serving as backup or normal supply for multiple zone substations.
(e) 132kV lines that result in voltage constraints to downstream substation if affected by an outage.
(f) Lines nominated for refurbishment as part of SARP program TM 0004.
(g) Lines subject to mining subsidence.
(h) Pre-1970s era 33kV feeders that have not been refurbished and pose a high risk of defects being found on the original fittings and equipment.

31
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