Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) has announced the formal integration of the Look Up and Live tool alongside its underground plan service, resulting in what it says is a “one-stop resource” for anyone working near above-ground and underground utility infrastructure.

The Look Up and Live 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.

Originally developed by Ergon Energy Network and Energex in 2017 to promote safe work practices near Queensland’s electricity network, Look Up and Live has since expanded to include overhead networks in New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria.

Over the past 20 years, more than 135 people have lost their lives due to contact with overhead powerlines, with many more suffering life-altering injuries, including permanent disabilities.

Sixteen powerline owners in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, and Victoria contribute data across a total of two million square kilometres, pinpointing 5.2 million poles and towers, and 791,387 km of powerlines.

There are 220,000 uses of lookupandlive.com each year and more than 80,000 downloads of the app.

“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,” said Mell Greenall, CEO of BYDA.

“This integration will enable us to enhance the Look Up and Live app by expanding its reach to include all utility network operators with above-ground infrastructure.

“This means that gas, water, and telecommunications aboveground assets will be viewable alongside the existing power infrastructure, providing a more comprehensive safety resource.”

The Look Up and Live app is available online as well as via the App Store and Google Play.