electricalforum.nz

Does ECP34 override clause 3.12 in 3000 when it comes to clearance distances for electric lines in installations?

ESR17 indicates work on or near an electric line must maintain safe distances IAW ECP34, yet ESR59 indicates installations must comply with 3000? So which document takes precedence in terms of electric lines?

I can understand how ECP34 is the appropriate document when maintaining minimum approach distances when working near an electric line, as this info isn’t in 3000, but unsure what document to refer to when it comes to electric lines over driveways etc?

There is no conflict.

The relevant definitions are in the Act.

"Installations" that have a "point of supply" (PoS) start at the PoS; which is generally where conductors that are supplied from a network cross the property boundary.
"Lines" are part of "works" so are external to the PoS.

For aerial supply to an installation; the section from network connections to PoS is "lines" (and "works"), and from PoS on they are "mains"; and part of the "installation".
"3000" doesn't apply to works; and ECP 34 doesn't apply to installations.
So for each section, only one set of rules applies.

All you have to do is work out where the PoS is in relation to where the conductors cross the driveway; and use the appropriate document.
In most cases aerial conductors crossing a driveway will be "mains" and not "lines"; so "3000" will apply.
Unless it's one of those legacy situations where conductors supplying one installation cross above a neighbouring property
(called aerial trespass; and not allowed to be established these days unless there's a legal easement in place)
Where conductors cross footpath / verge; that's outside the relevant property boundary and therefore the conductors are "lines".
The land underneath won't be a (private) driveway, it's part of the (public) road reserve.

Thanks Alec, that makes sense.