The Look Up and Live tool will build on Before You Dig Australia’s commitment to safety.
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The new Look Up and Live app is a one-stop resource for Australians planning work near both above-ground and underground utility infrastructure, positioned alongside Before You Dig Australia (BYDA)’s underground plan service.
The app was originally developed by Ergon Energy Network and Energex in 2017 to promote safe work practices near Queensland’s electricity network.
But today, Look Up and Live has expanded to include overhead networks in New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria.
The app provides users with real-time access to powerline locations and imagery, free of charge, via an interactive geospatial map.
It allows for real-time location searches, map overlays with third-party mapping programs, and the option to print maps as needed.
The program aims to mitigate risks associated with overhead powerline work.
In the past 20 years, more than 135 people have died due to contact with overhead powerlines, with many more suffering life-altering injuries, including permanent disabilities.
BYDA Chief Executive Office Mell Greenall says the group is dedicated to making safe work near utilities as straightforward and practical as possible.
“By integrating Look Up and Live with Before You Dig, we are simplifying the process of accessing utility plans and essential safety information, empowering workers to operate safely around utility infrastructure,” she said.
“This further embeds BYDA as a trusted source for utility safety information and simplifies safety planning for the construction sector and broader community.”
Energy Queensland’s Community Safety Specialist, Glen ‘Cookie’ Cook is excited to see the app be used out in the field.
“The lookupandlive.com app is an essential lifesaving planning tool, free for everyone to access; I am proud that the lookupandlive.com app is protecting people from harm and is reducing community power disruptions,” he said.
“I look forward to seeing the product continue to grow at its new home at Before You Dig Australia.”