DEG Insights

Working Near Overhead Lines: Why Equipment Assurance Is the Control That Counts

DEG — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:36:14 GMT

For Aotearoa's electrical utilities, contractors, and infrastructure providers, working near overhead lines is part of everyday operations.

EWPs operating alongside distribution networks. Cranes lifting near live assets. Civil works in proximity to HV infrastructure.

The risk is well understood — and well documented.

Yet incidents still occur. Not because the risks are unknown, but because the systems used to manage them are often incomplete.

Safety Is a System, Not a Single Control

Managing overhead line risk isn't about any one control measure.

It's a layered safety system, where each element supports the next:

Procedures define the work
Training builds capability
Equipment enables safe operation
Inspection and certification ensure that equipment performs as intended

If any one of those layers is weak, the entire system is exposed.

Where the System Often Fails

Procedures and planning are essential. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, PCBUs have a duty to manage risk so far as is reasonably practicable — and that starts with establishing how work near overhead lines should be carried out.

Training sharpens decision-making. Operators need to understand electrical risk, not just plant operation — and supervisors need to recognise proximity hazards in changing site conditions.

But both layers share a critical assumption: that the equipment being used will perform as expected.

In practice, this is where risk is most often introduced.

Equipment is assumed to be safe — rather than verified to be safe.

The Failure Modes Are Real

Consider two scenarios that recur across the industry:

An EWP operating near live distribution lines — certified on paper, but with insulation that hasn't been dielectrically tested to AS 4748 within the required inspection cycle. The operator is following the procedure. The exclusion zone is set. But if the insulation fails under voltage, the layered system collapses at its foundation.

A crane lifting near live assets — with a current WoF sticker, but no independent verification that the load-bearing components meet AS 2550 requirements. The lift plan is solid. The operator is experienced. But the certificate is the weakest link.

In both cases, the procedures and training are doing their job. The equipment is the gap.

The Foundation Everything Else Depends On

For equipment operating near live infrastructure, inspection and certification aren't just compliance activities — they're the control that makes every other control reliable.

If equipment hasn't been properly inspected, correctly certified, and maintained to recognised standards:

Procedures are built on assumptions
Training is applied to unreliable systems
Controls may fail at the moment they're needed most

Under the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010, network operators and contractors have specific obligations around electrical safety that extend to the equipment their people are using. Independent, accredited inspection is how those obligations are met — and demonstrated.

What Accredited Inspection Actually Means

Not all inspection and testing is equal.

DEG's work is underpinned by two internationally recognised frameworks:

ISO/IEC 17020 – Inspection Bodies
When your network operator, insurer, or regulator asks for evidence of independent verification, accreditation to ISO/IEC 17020 is what that looks like. It means independent, impartial assessment — not a tick-and-flick from a service provider with a commercial interest in the outcome.

ISO/IEC 17025 – Testing and Calibration
For HV PPE, insulated tools, and voltage detection equipment, test results are only as good as the laboratory producing them. ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation means full measurement traceability and results that stand up to audit.

As an IANZ-accredited provider, DEG holds both.

What This Means for Your Operation

For Health and Safety Managers, this translates directly into audit-ready assurance:

EWPs inspected to AS 4748 and AS 2550.10 — with records that demonstrate compliance at the point of use
Cranes and lifting gear certified against AS/NZS 4991 and AS 2550
HV/LV PPE and insulated tools tested and traceable — aligned to network operator safe work practice requirements
Calibration services that support your broader compliance obligations under NZS 3000 and related standards

Without that level of assurance, risk is being managed on assumption — not evidence. And when WorkSafe or your network operator asks for proof, assumption isn't enough.

Built for New Zealand's Infrastructure Sector

DEG supports electrical utilities, contractors, and infrastructure providers nationwide with inspection, testing, and certification services designed for the realities of working near live infrastructure.

Our mobile teams operate across the country, with deep familiarity with the regulatory frameworks, network operator requirements, and operational pressures that define this sector.

Start With a Compliance Review

Working near overhead lines will always involve risk. The question is whether your equipment assurance is genuinely closing the gap — or leaving it open.

If you're not certain when your EWPs or lifting gear were last independently inspected, or whether your HV PPE testing is current, that's the right place to start.

Talk to DEG about a compliance review →

Why Accreditation Matters

DEG — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 20:17:03 GMT

For Aotearoa’s electrical utilities and lines companies, safety and compliance are non-negotiable.

Whether it’s six-monthly inspections of elevated work platforms (EWPs) and HV equipment or annual testing of lifting gear, the integrity of your testing provider directly impacts the safety of your crews and the reliability of your network.

That’s why it’s critical to engage a provider who is not only technically competent—but independently accredited and locally accountable.

Accreditation You Can Trust

When you choose a provider accredited to ISO/IEC 17020 (Inspection Bodies) and ISO/IEC 17025 (Calibration Laboratories), you’re choosing more than a service—you’re choosing assurance.

At DEG, our IANZ-accredited systems ensure:

Audit-ready results – Every inspection and calibration is traceable, documented, and defensible.
Standards-based testing – Aligned with AS/NZS, ANSI, and industry-specific requirements.
Consistent quality – Backed by our ISO 9001 certified quality management system.

From dielectric testing of HV gloves and rescue kits to full compliance inspections of EWPs and rigging gear, our processes are built to meet the demands of New Zealand’s electrical infrastructure sector.

Why NZ-Owned Matters

As a 100% New Zealand-owned company, DEG brings more than just technical capability—we bring accountability. Our teams operate nationwide, with a deep understanding of local conditions, regulatory frameworks, and operational pressures.

Choosing a NZ-owned provider means:

Integrity – We stand by our results and the people who deliver them.
Responsiveness – Mobile teams ready to support urgent compliance needs across the motu.
Partnership – A long-term commitment to helping you keep your people safe and your assets compliant.

Built for Utilities, Proven in the Field

DEG’s Calibration & Compliance division supports electrical utilities and lines companies with:

Six-monthly and annual EWP inspections to AS 2550.10, AS 4748, and ANSI/SIA A92.2
HV/LV testing of PPE, insulated tools, rescue kits, and voltage detectors
Lifting and rigging inspections aligned with AS/NZS 4991 and AS 2550
Barcode tracking and automated reminders to keep your fleet compliant and audit-ready

Ready to Raise the Bar?

If you’re looking for a testing partner who understands the stakes, stands by their work, and delivers with integrity— talk to DEG.

Join DE Group - Engineering Careers That Go Beyond the Desk

DEG — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 03:22:13 GMT

DE Group (DEG) is a proudly New Zealand-owned engineering firm delivering practical, high-impact solutions across mechanical, structural, and civil disciplines. Our work spans consulting, design, and delivery — from concept to construction — with projects across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

As our project pipeline continues to grow, we’re looking for Graduate and Intermediate Mechanical & Structural Engineers to join our team. These roles offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, contribute to real-world projects, and grow your career in a supportive, collaborative environment.

At DEG, you’ll work alongside experienced engineers, including Chartered professionals, and be involved in all aspects of project delivery — from design and documentation to client engagement and site work. You’ll be encouraged to take ownership of smaller projects while contributing to larger ones as part of a close-knit team.

We offer flexible working arrangements and a culture that values initiative, teamwork, and continuous learning. If you’re ready to build a meaningful career in engineering — not just consulting — we’d love to hear from you.

👉 Apply now via Seek: https://www.seek.co.nz/job/87315043

Choosing the Right MEWP: EWPA’s Latest Guidance for Safer, Smarter Operations

DEG — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:15:34 GMT

Choosing the Right MEWP: EWPA’s Latest Guidance for Safer, Smarter Operations

At DEG, safety and precision are at the heart of everything we do. The latest Elevating Work Platform Association of New Zealand (EWPA) guidance, released in September 2025, provides a robust framework for selecting and operating Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) across diverse environments.

Why MEWP Selection Matters

Selecting the correct MEWP isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about doing it safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with industry standards. The EWPA guidance highlights that each worksite presents unique challenges, and MEWPs vary widely in capability. A poor selection can lead to inefficiencies, safety risks, and compliance issues.

Key Factors to Consider

Before deploying a MEWP, competent persons should assess:

Task Requirements: Height, reach, number of personnel, and weight of tools/materials.
Terrain & Stability: Ground conditions, slope, and the ability to level the chassis.
Environmental Conditions: Wind exposure, electromagnetic radiation, exhaust emissions, and noise.
Machine Specifications: Platform size, mass, tail swing, boom elbow swing, and travel capabilities (e.g., 4WD, crawler).
Safety Features: Secondary guarding for crush protection, especially near fixed structures.

Special Considerations

Wind: Only MEWPs rated for wind speeds ≥12.5 m/s should be used outdoors. Wind assessments and monitoring are essential, especially in channeled areas like between buildings.
Electromagnetic Radiation: MEWPs operating near high EM fields must be evaluated for interference risks.
Hazardous Environments: Only MEWPs certified for explosive or flammable conditions should be used in such areas.
Exhaust Gas: Internal combustion MEWPs require proper ventilation or mitigation measures in enclosed spaces.

Guidance Checklist

EWPA includes a sample checklist to assist in MEWP selection. While not exhaustive, it prompts consideration of:

Task height and reach
Ground strength and slope
Indoor/outdoor conditions
Access restrictions
Load requirements
Operator training and supervision

This checklist is a valuable tool for DEG’s field teams and clients to ensure every MEWP deployment is safe, compliant, and fit for purpose.

At DEG, we integrate this guidance into our inspection and commissioning workflows, ensuring our clients benefit from the latest industry standards. Whether it’s EWP commissioning, fatigue inspections, or compliance testing, our team is equipped to deliver with confidence.

📄 Reference: MEWP Selection and Control Measures – Industry Guidance, Elevating Work Platform Association of New Zealand (EWPA), Version 1, September 2025.

EEA 2025 at Te Pae – A Sector Recharged and Ready

DEG — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 01:20:19 GMT

This year’s EEA Conference at Te Pae in Christchurch was a standout event, bringing together the best minds and energy from across the industry. The venue itself was exceptional — modern, welcoming, and perfectly suited to the scale and ambition of the conversations taking place.

There was a real sense of momentum and renewed optimism in the sector. From the shift toward smarter infrastructure to the growing appetite for automation and AI-driven solutions, it’s clear that the industry is embracing change and innovation with purpose.

For DEG the conference was a fantastic opportunity to connect — and reconnect — with clients, partners, and prospective collaborators. We were proud to showcase our refreshed branding and share our growth story, which reflects the evolving needs of the sector and our commitment to staying ahead of the curve.

A key focus for us was learning from industry, seeing the steps being taking in automation and AI and mapping this shift in technology onto the services we already offer, improving value to our clients and deepening the quality of our offering. We’re already helping clients move beyond reactive maintenance toward predictive, data-driven decision-making and this week only reaffirms the direction we are taking.

We also had great conversations around our calibration and compliance services — particularly in the context of partnering with distribution and services organisations, for regular HV glove and barrier testing, leveraging our industry wide experience.

Beyond the tech and tools, the real highlight was the people. We made new connections, reaffirmed long-standing relationships, and had meaningful conversations about where the industry is heading — and how we can help shape that future.

We’re already looking forward to EEA 2026 in Auckland, scheduled for September 22–24. If this year’s event is anything to go by, next year promises to be even bigger, bolder, and more connected.

Introducing DEG: A New Name for Trusted Compliance Engineering

DEG — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 21:53:03 GMT

In 2025, we’ve entered a new chapter—one that reflects our evolution, our expertise, and our commitment to clarity in everything we do.

DE Group is now DEG.

This rebrand marks the culmination of over three decades of growth, diversification, and technical leadership across New Zealand’s infrastructure and energy sectors. While our name has changed, our purpose remains the same: to deliver audit-ready, standards-aligned solutions that stand up to scrutiny.

Our History

Founded in Timaru in 1991 as Design Engineering, our early services focused on steel detailing, mechanical design, welding inspection, and qualification testing. Over time, we expanded into structural engineering, non-destructive testing, and equipment inspections—covering cranes, pressure systems, electrical gear, and elevating work platforms.

Between 2007 and 2014, we added branches in Christchurch, Dunedin, and Hamilton to meet growing demand nationwide. In 2018, we acquired Survey NZ, strengthening our capabilities in ship surveys and land-based inspections. A formal restructure in 2021 created the DE Group, comprising:

DE Consulting Engineers & Inspection
DE Calibration & Compliance
Survey NZ

Why DEG?

The shift to DEG in 2025 reflects our commitment to a unified, recognisable identity—one that better communicates our integrated service offering and supports our clients with clarity and confidence.

We now operate through three specialised divisions:

DEG Consulting Engineering
DEG Calibration & Compliance
DEG Survey & Inspection

This structure allows us to deliver seamless support across engineering, inspection, calibration, and compliance—while maintaining the depth and rigour our clients expect.

What Remains Unchanged

Our 5-star Impac Prequal rating
Accreditation to ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17025, and ISO 9001
Alignment with NZ and Australian regulatory frameworks, including PECPR, the Building Act, AS/NZS standards, and IANZ accreditation

We remain deeply committed to technical defensibility, operational integrity, and plain-language communication—whether we’re supporting a producer statement, preparing for audit, or delivering field inspections.

Crane Inspections That Meet the Highest Standards: DEG Survey & Inspection

DEG — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 21:52:42 GMT

In industries where lifting operations are critical, crane safety is non-negotiable. Whether you're operating mobile cranes, overhead travelling systems, or shipboard lifting gear, regular inspections are essential to ensure safe performance, regulatory compliance, and operational reliability.

At DEG Survey & Inspection, we provide comprehensive crane inspection services backed by our status as an ISO/IEC 17020 accredited Inspection Body. This accreditation confirms our technical competence, independence, and alignment with New Zealand’s regulatory requirements.

What We Inspect

Our crane inspection services cover a wide range of equipment types and operational contexts, including:

Goliath cranes
Lattice boom cranes
Mobile cranes
Overhead Travelling Cranes (OHTC)
Shipboard lifting equipment
Truck Loader Cranes
Truck Mounted Cranes

We also inspect associated lifting accessories and rigging gear, ensuring every component meets safety and performance standards.

Beyond Visual Checks: Technical Assurance

Our inspections go beyond surface-level assessments. We offer:

Design verification and compliance assessments
Load testing and certification
Non-destructive testing (NDT) of structural components
Preventive maintenance and condition evaluations
Compliance checks against relevant New Zealand standards and regulations

Each inspection is documented and traceable, supporting your internal safety systems and external audit requirements.

Why Choose an ISO/IEC 17020 Accredited Provider?

Accreditation under ISO/IEC 17020 means our inspection processes are independently verified for quality, impartiality, and technical rigour. It gives our clients confidence that:

Inspections are carried out by qualified professionals
Findings are reliable and defensible
Compliance obligations are fully supported

In summary, DEG Survey & Inspection offers crane inspection services that meet the highest standards—helping you manage risk, maintain compliance, and keep lifting operations safe. If you're looking for a trusted inspection partner, we're ready to support your next project.

Acoustic Emission Testing: Keeping Fibreglass Booms on EWPs Safe and Compliant

DEG — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 21:52:16 GMT

When working at height, safety is paramount—especially when using mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs). For machines fitted with fibreglass booms, a specialised check known as an Acoustic Emission Test (AET) is required to ensure structural integrity and ongoing compliance.

What Is Acoustic Emission Testing?

Acoustic Emission Testing is a non-destructive testing method used to assess the condition of fibreglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) booms. These booms are commonly found on MEWPs used in electrical, industrial, and utility sectors due to their insulating properties.

The test involves applying and withdrawing a load over pre-determined cycles, while sensitive equipment monitors for acoustic signals—tiny stress-related sounds that can indicate cracks, fibre breaks, or delamination within the boom. These signals aren’t audible to the human ear but can reveal serious internal faults.

Meeting AS/NZS 4748 Requirements

In Aotearoa New Zealand, Acoustic Emission Testing must comply with AS/NZS 4748: Acoustic Emission Testing of Fibreglass Insulated Booms on Elevating Work Platforms. This joint Australian/New Zealand standard sets out the procedures, equipment specifications, and competency requirements for conducting the test correctly.

Testing to this standard ensures:

The boom remains electrically insulated and structurally sound
The platform is safe to operate in high-risk environments
Your organisation meets legal and industry obligations

Why It’s Important

Over time, fibreglass booms are exposed to UV light, mechanical stress, and environmental wear. Even minor internal damage can lead to serious failure if not picked up early. Acoustic Emission Testing provides a proactive way to detect these issues before they become safety risks.

Who Should Carry It Out?

Only qualified and competent professionals with the right equipment and expertise should perform AET. The process requires precision, technical skill, and a thorough understanding of both the material and the standard.

In summary, Acoustic Emission Testing is a critical part of maintaining MEWP safety and compliance. If your equipment includes a fibreglass boom, make sure it’s tested regularly and in line with AS/NZS 4748—because when it comes to working at height, there’s no room for guesswork.

Forestry Machinery in New Zealand’s Regulatory Landscape

DEG — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 01:03:09 GMT

Forestry is one of New Zealand’s highest-risk industries, with machinery-related incidents continuing to feature prominently in serious harm statistics. At DEG Consulting Engineering, we specialise in designing and certifying forestry machinery that meets the operational demands of the sector while aligning with New Zealand’s health and safety legislation and recognised standards.

Regulatory Framework

Forestry machinery design is governed by a combination of statutory obligations, codes of practice, and technical standards. Key requirements include:

Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA)
Establishes the duty of care for all Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs), including designers, manufacturers, and operators of forestry machinery.
Approved Code of Practice for Safety and Health in Forest Operations (ACOP)
Provides practical guidance for meeting obligations under HSWA, particularly in harvesting, silviculture, and log transport operations.
Relevant AS/NZS and ISO Standards, including:
- AS/NZS 4024 series – Safety of Machinery
- AS 1636 and ISO 3471/3449 – Roll-Over Protective Structures (ROPS), Falling Object Protective Structures (FOPS), and Operator Protective Structures (OPS)
- AS/NZS 1418 – Cranes and lifting components
- AS 4991 – Lifting Devices
- AS/NZS 1657 – Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders

Safety-Critical Design Elements

DEG’s forestry machinery designs incorporate the following safety features, each referenced to applicable standards:

Component	Safety Feature and Compliance Reference
Operator Protection	ROPS, FOPS, OPS certified to ISO 3471/3449; COPS integrated where required
Access and Egress	AS/NZS 1657-compliant platforms, handrails, and anti-slip surfaces
Hydraulic Systems	Fail-safe design with pressure relief and lockout mechanisms
Lifting Attachments	AS 4991-rated spreader beams, lifting lugs, and anchor points
Fall Protection	Integrated anchor points for fall arrest and restraint systems

Documentation and Audit Readiness

All DEG designs are supported by comprehensive documentation to ensure audit defensibility and operational clarity:

Engineering certification and load rating documentation
Compliance matrices mapped to HSWA, ACOP, and AS/NZS standards
Maintenance and inspection schedules aligned with ISO/IEC 17020 and 17025
Design drawings and modification records with full traceability

Why Safety-Led Design Matters

New Zealand’s forestry sector continues to face scrutiny over workplace safety. Machinery design plays a critical role in reducing risk and ensuring compliance. By embedding safety into the design phase, DEG helps clients:

Meet WorkSafe NZ expectations
Reduce liability exposure
Ensure defensibility in audits, investigations, and contract reviews

DEG Consulting Engineering delivers forestry machinery solutions that are safe, compliant, and built for New Zealand’s unique operating environments. Whether designing new equipment, modifying existing assets, or certifying lifting gear, we provide technical assurance backed by regulatory precision.

Earthquake Engineering in New Zealand: Strengthening for Safety and Compliance

DEG — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 00:55:31 GMT

New Zealand’s seismic risk is among the highest in the world, and the regulatory framework reflects that reality. At DEG Consulting Engineering, our Earthquake Engineering team provides practical, standards-aligned solutions to help builders, asset owners, and councils meet their obligations under the Building Act 2004 and the Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Act 2016.

From seismic assessments to retrofit design, our work supports safer buildings and more resilient communities.

Seismic Assessments: ISA and DSA

Seismic assessments are the foundation of earthquake risk management. DEG offers both:

Assessment Type	Purpose	Outcome
Initial Seismic Assessment (ISA)	Broad indication of seismic performance	Identifies potential earthquake-prone status
Detailed Seismic Assessment (DSA)	Comprehensive structural analysis	Determines %NBS rating and retrofit needs

These assessments follow the Engineering Assessment Guidelines issued by MBIE and are required by councils to determine whether a building is earthquake-prone under Subpart 6A of the Building Act.

Retrofit Solutions: Base Isolation and Strengthening

DEG provides tailored retrofit solutions, including:

Base Isolation Systems: Originally developed in Wellington, base isolation involves installing flexible bearings between the foundation and superstructure to reduce seismic energy transfer. It is a proven low-damage solution for civic, commercial, and increasingly residential buildings.
Strengthening of Historic and URM Buildings: Unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings are common across New Zealand and pose significant life safety risks in earthquakes. DEG applies practical strengthening methods—such as diaphragm anchoring, parapet bracing, and cavity wall ties—to improve seismic performance while respecting heritage value.

We understand the financial and technical challenges faced by owners of older buildings, particularly in regional centres. Our team works to deliver cost-effective, code-compliant solutions that meet both safety and heritage requirements.

Legal Framework: Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Act 2016

The Amendment Act, in force since 1 July 2017, introduced a national system for managing earthquake-prone buildings. Key provisions include:

Buildings rated below 34% NBS are deemed earthquake-prone
Timeframes for assessment and strengthening vary by seismic risk zone (high, medium, low)
Councils issue EPB notices and maintain a public register
Owners must strengthen or demolish within set timeframes, or face enforcement action

DEG ensures all assessments and retrofit designs comply with MBIE’s EPB methodology and the NZ Building Code (Clause B1 – Structure).

Supporting Builders and Construction Firms

We work closely with builders and contractors to:

Provide seismic design input for new builds and alterations
Deliver ISA/DSA reports for consent and insurance purposes
Support CCC applications with PS1 and PS4 documentation
Offer practical advice on strengthening options and sequencing

Our goal is to make seismic compliance achievable, defensible, and aligned with construction realities.