Underground cables safety alert
HSENI HAS seen an increase in the number of incidents involving damage to the electricity infrastructure involving high voltage cables.
The regulator has sent out a safety alert to remind duty holders to ensure safe systems of work are implemented when carrying out any work close to electricity infrastructure/electrical cables. Serious injuries have occurred during excavation and other work near underground power cables. Underground power cables present a risk of serious or fatal injury during excavation or similar work, particularly to people using hand tools (e.g. picks, concrete breakers etc.).
HSENI warns that before you start digging you should apply for network maps of the area that you are about to start working in. Precautions should include: mapping, recording and marking on site of cable runs; use of cable-locating devices; and safe digging practices.
You can access information on how to apply for network maps by clicking HERE.
