Watch out for the Shocking Overheads - Media Statements
[ Last Updated 9 March 2006 ]
If you are planning some home maintenance work such as painting or trimming trees, be careful when you are working in the vicinity of power lines where they enter your house. These lines are not safe to touch. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs' Energy Safety Service warns that there are risks associated with working near power lines. There have been fatalities as a result of people touching overhead power lines or the bare conductors where they enter the house.
The risk of being injured is increased if power lines or conductors are damaged or their condition has deteriorated over time. Many people do not realise that it is the homeowners, not the electricity lines company, who are responsible for the maintenance of the power lines within their property that supply their electricity. Homeowners are also responsible for maintaining the clearances on their properties between power lines and buildings, structures or trees.
The Energy Safety Service has the following overhead power lines safety tips:
- Make sure that power lines on your property are well maintained. Always use a licensed electrical worker for all electrical repairs.
- Plant trees well away from power lines and keep the branches trimmed if required. Before installing a clothesline, TV antenna or other high structure, check for clearance of power lines.
- Consult with your local electricity supplier before carrying out any work or using a ladder close to lines. Plan your work and arrange to have the power disconnected by the supplier, if necessary.
- If you are using a ladder or handling a tall object near power lines, keep on eye on what is above you - don’t let it come in contact with power lines. Watch out for what’s below - make sure you check for the presence of any underground gas, power or water services before you dig.
- If you are operating any electrical equipment outdoors, always use a Residual Current Device (RCD) or an isolating transformer.
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