Other activities near high-voltage facilities

Coming too close to a high-voltage facility

Coming too close to a high-voltage facility can kill you, so make sure you always keep a distance of at least 10 metres.
You are still at risk even if you do not touch any high-voltage equipment: electric arcs, which can kill, may occur if you come too close to a live component. The safe distance differs depending on the voltage level, but as a general rule of thumb, you will be safe if you stay at least 10 metres away from any high-voltage facilities.

Make sure to bear the following factors in mind :

• wind: the wires in a high-voltage power line can sway up to 20 metres in high winds;
• heat: lines can sag by as much as 2 metres when the weather is hot or when they are transporting large loads.

These factors mean that the distance between you and a given point can vary substantially, so be sure to take them into account when determining the safe distance.

If you find a high-voltage power line lying on the ground, keep at least 10 metres away from it and contact us immediately on our emergency number 0800 95 062.

Entering or climbing on a high-voltage facility

Entering or climbing on high-voltage facilities is strictly prohibited. Only Elia-authorised personnel may enter or climb on high-voltage facilities. A warning to this effect is posted on every pylon.

Elia cannot be held liable for any accidents caused by non-compliance.

High-risk activities

A number of activities require special attention because they are especially risky when performed near high-voltage facilities :

• Airborne sports

  Given the risk of flashover, flying too close to power lines is extremely dangerous for people flying helicopters, gliders, sports aircraft, microlight aircraft and hang gliders, as well as parachutists, paragliders and balloonists.

  Information on the location of high-voltage power lines is available from FPS Mobility and Transport and Belgocontrol. The National Geographical Institute regularly produces up-to-date maps showing the location of lines.

• Angling and other activities involving long objects

  Fishing rods are often made of materials that conduct electricity well. Besides, it can be difficult to judge distances when you are casting. For that reason, you should never fish close to high-voltage lines and never walk under overhead lines with a fishing rod.

• Other activities
  • Anyone wishing to erect a temporary structure (e.g. marquee, flagpole, antenna) within 100 metres of a high-voltage power line is legally required to consult Elia’s Contact Centre.
  • Likewise, you must get in touch with our Contact Centre if you plan to plant or maintain trees.
  • Flying kites, model aeroplanes or drones near a high-voltage line may cause flashover. If an object becomes caught in power lines, never try to free it yourself.