DAMAGE to overhead electricity lines in the Farlough Road area resulted in the loss of power to around 60 customers in the Derrytrasna and Derrinraw townlands on Tuesday afternoon.
The damage was not reported to NIE at the time.
Crews investigating the power failure found high voltage electricity lines had been damaged. They also received a report of a tipper lorry working in the vicinity.
Supplies were restored that even
ing after repairs and safety checks had been completed.
NIE responded by issuing a stark safety warning to lorry and tractor drivers tipping in the vicinity of overhead power lines.
Angelena Fusco, NIE’s customer relations manager for the Craigavon area, advised anyone working close to overhead electricity lines and equipment to carry out a proper risk assessment before starting and to follow safe working procedures.
network
“There have been a number of recent incidents resulting in damage to the overhead electricity network,” she said. “Contractors and lorry drivers must ensure they are aware of the location of overhead power lines.
“We would urge anyone working in the vicinity of electricity equipment to adhere to the necessary safety precautions, plan their work carefully and stay at least five metres away from the overhead lines.
jump
“Vehicles and equipment don’t actually have to touch lines to become live,” she warned. “Electricity can jump gaps and these remain live - at dangerously high voltages - until our crews are able to carry out an emergency isolation.
“If your vehicle does come into contact with overhead power lines, stay put, keep everyone away and call for help. If you do need to exit, jump clear, land on both feet and do not return to the vehicle.
“Our message is clear – Keep Five, Stay Alive,” she said.
NIE currently offers contractors a wide range of advice and assistance to help them avoid the dangers from the electricity network. This advice includes leaflets, videos and maps.
Contact NIE on 08457 643 643 or for additional safety advice or visit the website www.niesafety.co.uk.
guidance
Further information can also be obtained from the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland - HSE guidance notes GS6 (Avoidance of danger from overhead electric lines).
The full article contains 373 words and appears in Portadown Times newspaper.
