Menu
24/08/2012
Electrocution Warning After Ten Deaths
Ten people have died from touching overhead power lines since 2001, Northern Ireland Electricity has warned.
The electricity network launched a major campaign today to make farmers, contractors, DIY enthusiasts and others aware of the dangers of felling trees and cutting hedges near lines.
The campaign follows a recent spate of incidents were overhead electricity lines were damaged when vegetation was being cut, NIW warned.
Kevin McDowell, NIE Health, Safety and Environment Manager, said: "Any contact with live electricity equipment may result in injury, or even death. We ask anyone considering this type of work to consult with NIE prior to work starting. This type of damage to the electricity network may also cause local communities to lose their electricity supplies, inconveniencing homes and businesses in the area.
"We know this is a busy time of the year for farmers and agricultural contractors but carrying out a basic risk assessment before starting work could mean the difference between life and death. It's time for everyone working near electricity equipment to put safety first, every time. Our message is clear - look up, look out and stay away from overhead lines."
If you are planning work in the vicinity of the electricity network please contact NIE on 08457 643 643. Do not cut hedges or trees that are directly below live overhead lines if they are within 5m of the line, and do not assume that planned interruptions of supply necessarily mean that all electricity lines in the area will be off.
(NE)
The electricity network launched a major campaign today to make farmers, contractors, DIY enthusiasts and others aware of the dangers of felling trees and cutting hedges near lines.
The campaign follows a recent spate of incidents were overhead electricity lines were damaged when vegetation was being cut, NIW warned.
Kevin McDowell, NIE Health, Safety and Environment Manager, said: "Any contact with live electricity equipment may result in injury, or even death. We ask anyone considering this type of work to consult with NIE prior to work starting. This type of damage to the electricity network may also cause local communities to lose their electricity supplies, inconveniencing homes and businesses in the area.
"We know this is a busy time of the year for farmers and agricultural contractors but carrying out a basic risk assessment before starting work could mean the difference between life and death. It's time for everyone working near electricity equipment to put safety first, every time. Our message is clear - look up, look out and stay away from overhead lines."
If you are planning work in the vicinity of the electricity network please contact NIE on 08457 643 643. Do not cut hedges or trees that are directly below live overhead lines if they are within 5m of the line, and do not assume that planned interruptions of supply necessarily mean that all electricity lines in the area will be off.
(NE)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
09 September 2004
Contractors warned of overhead electrical wire dangers
Contractors and lorry drivers have been warned about the dangers of overhead electricity lines following an accident earlier this week which deprived customers of power for several hours.
Contractors warned of overhead electrical wire dangers
Contractors and lorry drivers have been warned about the dangers of overhead electricity lines following an accident earlier this week which deprived customers of power for several hours.
06 June 2003
NIE urge ‘be aware’ of overhead power cables
Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) have urged contractors to be aware of overhead electricity lines.
NIE urge ‘be aware’ of overhead power cables
Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) have urged contractors to be aware of overhead electricity lines.
27 June 2008
Rathlin's Big 'Switch' Pulled
Rathlin islanders are at last able to enjoy a dependable supply of electricity. Yesterday, NI Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy officially switched on a new 10.4km subsea electricity cable which extends from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island.
Rathlin's Big 'Switch' Pulled
Rathlin islanders are at last able to enjoy a dependable supply of electricity. Yesterday, NI Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy officially switched on a new 10.4km subsea electricity cable which extends from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island.
08 July 2013
Power Loss Expected On 11th
Some residents who live close to 11th night bonfires could experience a loss of electricity, if flames get too close to power lines. Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) has issued a safety warning to communities to build bonfires in safe places; away from overhead power lines.
Power Loss Expected On 11th
Some residents who live close to 11th night bonfires could experience a loss of electricity, if flames get too close to power lines. Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) has issued a safety warning to communities to build bonfires in safe places; away from overhead power lines.
25 September 2003
Minister announces £30m electricity initiative
Enterprise Minister, Ian Pearson has announced plans to invest £30 million in a new initiative aimed at reducing electricity bills for Northern Ireland's businesses. It is hoped that the funding, which is part of a draft budget, will help businesses save 10% on their electricity bills.
Minister announces £30m electricity initiative
Enterprise Minister, Ian Pearson has announced plans to invest £30 million in a new initiative aimed at reducing electricity bills for Northern Ireland's businesses. It is hoped that the funding, which is part of a draft budget, will help businesses save 10% on their electricity bills.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
