guidelinesfor safe working nearoverhead electricity linesin

Guidelines forSafe WorkingNear OverheadElectricityLines inAgriculture

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Contents

1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

2 Line Heights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

3 Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

4 Assess the Risks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

5 Reduce the Risks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

6 Construction Activities NearOverhead Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

7 Machinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

8 Radio/CB Aerials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

9 Rain Guns/Slurry Spreaders . . . . . . .13

10 Long-Boom Irrigators . . . . . . . . . . .14

11 Low-Precipitation Sprinklers . . . . . .15

12 Fencing (Including ElectricFencing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

13 Ladders and Other LongConducting Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

14 Stacks and Temporary Structures . .17

15 Fallen or Low-Hanging Wires . . . . .18

16 Overhead Line ProximityDetectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

17 Cab Signage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

18 If the Worst Happens . . . . . . . . . . . .20

19 Further Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Appendix 1: Safety Checklists . . . . . . . . .23

Appendix 2: Contacting ESB Networks . .24

Acknowledgements

The HSA wishes to acknowledge the assistance of

the Health and Safety Executive (UK), Teagasc,

ESB Networks and the Professional Agricultural

Contractors of Ireland in the preparation of these

guidelines.

1. IntroductionOverhead power lines on Irish farms pose aserious risk to farmers, contractors andanyone in the vicinity of high machinerypassing close to these lines. Several peoplehave been killed and many more injured as aresult of making contact, or near contact,with overhead electricity lines duringagricultural work. Machinery (such as forageharvesters, combine harvesters and tippingtrailers), equipment (such as ladders) andactivities (such as stacking) are ofteninvolved. Many ‘near misses’ also arise thatare not reported and where no one isinjured.

In Ireland, more so than in many countries,houses and other premises are spreadthroughout the countryside. It follows fromthis that Ireland has more than the averagelength of overhead electricity lines traversingthe countryside per customer. This increasesthe likelihood of higher items of agriculturalmachinery making dangerous contact withoverhead electricity lines while operating onIrish farms.

If a piece of machinery or equipment comesinto contact, or near contact, with anoverhead line, then electricity may beconducted through the machine orequipment to earth. It may also pass throughanyone who is touching the machinery orequipment. Electricity can arc, i.e. jumpacross gaps, so a person, or a piece ofmachinery, does not have to touch the line tocause a serious or fatal shock.

It is not only equipment and machinery thatpresent a danger. A jet of water or liquidslurry, a piece of metal or a fishing rod, forexample, can cause a discharge of electricityand a high risk of electrocution or severeelectrical burns if they come into contact, ornear contact, with an overhead electricityline.

Such serious electrical incidents often arisefrom a combination of factors. For example,you may be tired and less alert than usual, soyou forget to check for overhead lines in thearea where you are working. Or you may bein a hurry to get a job done, so you takeshort cut and don’t bring down a high-lifttrailer before you move it.

One of the biggest problems is that peoplesimply do not notice overhead electricitylines. Lines that run across the middle of afield are clearly visible, but if you pass themevery day you may stop being aware of them.Lines that run parallel to hedges or along theedge of woodland or forests tend to blendinto the scenery and can be particularlydifficult to spot. Lines that run parallel to, orunder, other lines are also hard to see.

Everyone working in agriculture shouldknow, understand and follow safeprocedures when working near overheadelectricity lines.

Page 2 | Guidelines for Safe Working Near Overhead Electricity Lines in Agriculture

2. Line HeightsThere is usually a significant distance(clearance) between overhead lines and theground. The heights of overhead lines varyaccording to the voltages – generally, thehigher the voltage, the higher the clearance.

The heights of lines can also vary accordingto the current being carried in the line andthe temperature of the line. If the line heatsup as a result of hot weather and/or theelectrical current that is flowing through it,the line will have at tendency to sag. Thissagging brings the line closer to the ground,which increases the possibility of inadvertentcontact.

The level of the ground beneath lines may beraised over time, decreasing the distancebetween the lines and any machinery passingunderneath and therefore increasing theassociated danger.

Caution is also necessary to ensure thatsupport structures, including poles, stay-wiresand pylons, are not damaged duringagricultural work such as harvesting andexcavations.

2.1 Standard Heights

As general guidance, the ground clearance ofoverhead lines crossing farmland and areasaccessible to vehicles and agriculturalmachinery will accommodate the safepassage of machinery and equipment up to amaximum height of 4 metres (13 feet). Thismaximum height may be reduced insituations where ground levels have beenraised or where damage has occurred topoles, stay-wires, cross-arms, etc.

When planning to carry out work in thevicinity of overhead electricity lines, anyconcerns arising with regard to the conditionof the lines, changes in ground levels,reduced clearances, etc. should be referred toESB Networks. In situations where machineryor equipment that will exceed 4 metres inheight is to be used, then it may be necessaryto contact ESB Networks to assess and getadvice on the actual site-specific safeclearance available. Where the available safeclearance is less than the proposed machineryheight, it may be feasible to raise or divertthe overhead line.

A note of these clearances should berecorded on a map of the farm showing theoverhead lines, which should be referred toany time you plan to use high machinery. Thisinformation can also be used to brief anycontractors that will be working in thevicinity of these overhead lines.

Guidelines for Safe Working Near Overhead Electricity Lines in Agriculture | Page 3

Figures 2.1 and 2.2 show how ordinary itemsof equipment can easily reach, and gobeyond, the height of a typical overhead line.In many cases the height of lines will besignificantly lower than the lines shown inthese diagrams and plant may besignificantly higher.

Figure 2.1 Heights comparison: Twin axletipping trailer and typical overhead line

Figure 2.2 Heights comparison: Hedge cutterand typical overhead line

Figures 2.3 and 2.4 show how a forageharvester in operational mode can readilymake contact with a typical overhead line.Again it is worth noting that 5.5 metres is byno means a minimum height for an overheadline, rather it is an indication to illustraterelative heights.

Figure 2.3 Height comparison: Forageharvester (transport position) and typicaloverhead line

Figure 2.4 Height comparison: Forageharvester (chute at maximum tilt) and typicaloverhead line


Indicative line heightheight (withwide variations)

5.5metres

1830

6096 50 0

7.3metres

9.1 metres

Floor

level

5.5

met

res

3.8

met

res

5.5

met

res

6.4

met

res

5.5

met

res

5.6

met

res

3.8

met

res

2.2 ESB Networks Maps

Copies of maps showing the position of themain overhead electricity lines crossing yourproperty can be obtained free of charge fromESB Networks’ Central Records Office.

Figure 2.5 Sample overhead line map

ESB Networks’ contact details foremergencies, maps, safety materials, adviceon available safe clearances and linealteration requests are given in Appendix 2.


3. ResponsibilitiesThe Safety, Health and Welfare Act 2005places responsibilities on everyone concernedwith work activities, including the self-employed (such as farmers), employers andemployees.

Regulation 93 of the Safety, Health andWelfare at Work (General Application)Regulations 2007 sets out the specificprecautions to be taken with regard tooverhead lines.

In accordance with the 2005 Act and theassociated Regulations, the farmer, anyoutside contractor, workers and ESBNetworks all have legal responsibilities toprevent dangerous contact with overheadlines.

Depending on the situation, the controlmeasures outlined in this document willapply to the party in a position to implementthe precautions specified.

4. Assess the RisksWhen assessing the risks from overheadelectricity lines, consider these four keyquestions:

● What are the risks?

● Who could be affected by them?

● Do the existing control measures removeor significantly reduce the risks?

● Can anything further be done?

Once you have completed your riskassessment it is important to plan anychanges so that they are implementedeffectively and before any work is carriedout.


5. Reduce the RisksGood management will reduce the risk ofaccidents happening. By planning carefullyfor all events, including all deliveries to thefarm, and by putting controls in place,workers, contractors and visitors should notcome into contact, or near contact, withoverhead electricity lines.

The following guidelines will help youdetermine which controls you should put inplace.

5.1 Think Ahead

● Only purchase or select suitablemachinery.

● Use machinery and equipment safely.

● Know the safe operating clearances.

● Plan your work so it avoids high-risk areas.

● Use alternative access points and routesthat avoid overhead lines.

● Keep an eye on children and visitors onyour land – a kite or a fishing rod usedclose to a line could set up a lethal circuit.

5.2 Map Overhead Electricity Line Routes

● Know your area.

● Find out the routes and operatingvoltages of overhead electricity linesrunning across your land or near theboundaries. ESB Networks will supply maprecords on request – see Section 2.2 andAppendix 2.

● Mark routes and voltages on the farmmap.

5.3 Measure Your Machinery

● Find out the maximum height and verticalreach of all your machinery andequipment (from machinery handbookswhere possible) and of all machinery andequipment used by contractors.

● Consider the risks associated withoverhead lines when buying new or usedequipment.

5.4 Inform People

● Make sure everyone knows what they aredoing and the risks involved.

● Train all staff to be aware of the risksassociated with overhead lines.

● Make sure contractors are aware of thelocation of lines before they come ontoyour land. Give them the information onsafe clearances and find out if theirmachinery and equipment are safe to usenear the overhead lines on your farm.Point out the locations of greatest risk.

● Put up signs for anyone else who may bein the vicinity, for example materialsdelivery personnel, outside contractorsand others who might be at risk.


5.5 Consult ESB Networks

● Contact ESB Networks for freeinformation and advice (with supportingliterature) about the precautions and safeworking practices to be followed nearoverhead lines – see Appendix 2 forcontact details.

● Ask ESB Networks to help you plan accessroutes to avoid lines and to advise you onwhat to do if it is necessary to work closeto the lines.

● Consult ESB Networks if you need tocheck your line clearances or have linesraised. Figure 5.1 shows ESB Networkspersonnel undertaking line heightmeasurements.

Figure 5.1 Line height measurement

5.6 Re-Route Overhead Lines

● You may want to consider re-routing orburying the overhead lines in certainlocations.

Consult ESB Networks.DO NOT attempt to do this yourself.

● Creating alternative routes and accesspoints may be a more cost-effective solution.


5.7 Limit Access Using Barriers and Goalposts

● It may be necessary, due to the nature andduration of the work, to use ground-levelbarriers and height-restricting goalpoststo limit access and to help control thehazard of working near overhead lines.Such measures are commonly used inareas where work is carried out regularly,such as yards, livestock feeding areas orstorage pits.

● Goalposts should not exceed a height of4.2 metres, unless specifically agreed withESB Networks for the particular crossingpoint involved.

● Barriers should run parallel to theoverhead line at a minimum horizontaldistance of 6 metres on plan from thenearest overhead line conductor wire.

● Check the poles carrying the overheadlines and report any abnormalities to ESBNetworks.

5.7.1 Ground-Level Barriers

Ground-level barriers must be easy to see.They can be constructed using:

● Posts and rail or post and wire fences.

● Large steel drums, such as 182 litre oildrums, brightly painted, filled with rubbleand placed at frequent intervals.

● An earth bank at least 1 metre high.

● Timber baulks that act as wheel stops.

5.7.2 Height-Restricting Goalposts

Height-restricting goalposts should be usedin conjunction with ground-level barriers torestrict the locations where machinery orother plant and equipment can cross safelyunder an overhead line.

Goalposts should be made from rigid, non-conducting, high-visibility material, such asRed 125 millimetre PVC undergroundelectricity ducts/pipes or timber painted toachieve a high-visibility effect.

5.7.3 Additional Measures

There may be occasions when work must becarried out beneath overhead lines, forexample the laying of pipes using anexcavator or the installation of fencing/gateposts using a post driver. Before starting suchwork the farmer or contractor should carryout a site-specific risk assessment, taking intoaccount the maximum potential height thatcan be reached by the plant or equipmentthat will be used. If the equipment is capableof reaching a height of more than 4 metres,then further safety control measures willneed to be put in place. Barriers andgoalposts have the potential to mitigate therisks but additional safety measures may alsobe necessary.


| Guidelines for Safe Working Near Overhead Electricity Lines in Agriculture

6. Construction Activities NearOverhead Lines

The risks associated with the carrying out ofconstruction-related activities in the vicinityof overhead electricity lines are generallyhigher than the risks associated with typicalagricultural activities. The guidelines andcontrol measures required for suchconstruction activities are consequently morestringent and onerous. These guidelines forSafe Working Near Overhead Electricity Linesin Agriculture do not cover construction-related activities on farms or otheragricultural environments.

The appropriate guidelines for allconstruction-related activities are covered ina separate HSA-approved code of practiceentitled ESB Networks Code of Practice forAvoiding Danger from Overhead ElectricityLines. This code of practice may bedownloaded from the website of the HSA orESB Networks (see www.hsa.ie orwww.esb.ie/esbnetworks). Printed copies areavailable free of charge from ESB Networks –see enquiry details in Appendix 2.

7. MachineryLoaders and other lifting equipment canextend far enough to make contact withoverhead lines. Take extra care when usingany of the following equipment:

● Front loaders

● Silage harvesters

● Bale elevators

● Lorry-mounted cranes/loaders

● Tractors

● Teleporters

● Combine harvesters

● Cherry pickers

● Hedge cutters

● Crop sprayers

● Excavators

● Tipping trailers and bale trailers

● Tipper trucks

● Post drivers.

Figure 7.1 Hedge cutting beneath overheadelectricity lines

Figure 7.2 Bales on front loader beneathoverhead electricity lines

Figure 7.3 Forage harvester at risk of contactwith overhead electricity lines


| Guidelines for Safe Working Near Overhead Electricity Lines in Agriculture

7.1 Risks

● Moving equipment or machinery whenextensions are raised could bring theminto contact, or near contact, withoverhead lines.

● Tall moving machines over uneven orrough ground could cause booms to swayor bounce and reduce the normally safeclearance distance from overhead lines.

● Risks increase at night or in fog or heavyrain when poor visibility makes it difficultto see the overhead lines.

7.2 Controls

● Plan access routes to the place where youare working that avoid overhead lines.

● If high machines frequently work nearoverhead lines, for example in thefarmyard, consult ESB Networks aboutburying, diverting or raising the lines.

● Know the full height of equipment andmachinery when all parts are raised totheir full extent. Check these heightsagainst the line safe clearances marked onthe farm map so that you know where theparticular areas of risk are located.

● Tell workers about the potential dangersand safe working practices. For example,to avoid making contact with an overheadline, drivers must retract the booms oftelescopic handlers and keep them asclose to the ground as possible when thevehicle is moving; however, remind driversthat carrying loads at a low level mayreduce their visibility and make it moredifficult to see pedestrians in the vicinityof the machine.

8. Radio/CB AerialsTractors and combine harvesters aresometimes fitted with aerials. There havebeen a number of injuries caused by contactbetween aerials and overhead electricitylines.

8.1 Risks

● Long aerials can extend high enough fromcabs for them to come into contact withoverhead lines.

● The clearance beneath overhead lines andthe ground may be difficult to estimateand drivers may be unaware of how closetheir aerial is to the lines.

8.2 Controls

● If CB radio or radio telephones are beingused, fit short aerials.

● Check site maps for the location ofoverhead lines and avoid driving beneaththem and especially where the safeclearance height is at its lowest, whichusually occurs towards the middle of theoverhead line span.

● Make sure anyone driving farm machineryor equipment knows where the overheadlines are and what they must do to avoidmaking contact with them.


9. Rain Guns/Slurry SpreadersA jet of water or slurry from a rain gun canbe thrown a distance of about 70 metres andcan reach a height of 15 metres. Some rainguns are fitted with devices to break up thejets of water.

Figure 9.1 Jet-breaker in operation

9.1 Risks

● Jets of water can conduct electricity,create a circuit and make equipment live.If you touch this equipment, the electricitywill pass through you to earth.

● Jets of water that are not being brokenup before they come into contact withoverhead lines could cause the equipmentto become live.

● Jet-breaker devices can become blockedand stop working leading to a continuousflow of water and increasing thepossibility of electricity passing through tothe nozzle.

● Slurry is even more dangerous because it

is a better conductor of electricity thanwater.

● Slurry deposited on conductors andinsulators can cause the breakdown ofinsulation and lead to flashover.

9.2 Controls

● Where it is practicable to do so, a rain gunshould travel parallel to overhead lines,not beneath them.

● Ensure that water or slurry is kept awayfrom overhead electricity lines. Spreadersshould not come within 30 metres of anoverhead line.

● If it is absolutely necessary for a rain gunto travel beneath an overhead line,consult ESB Networks to agree on therelevant precautions to be taken.

● Check the overall height of the machine.If it is over 4 metres, plan routes and usemarker posts and height-restrictinggoalposts when it is being moved so thatoperators do not make contact, or nearcontact, with overhead lines.

● Make sure jet-breaker devices are workingproperly. Ring nozzles are more effectivethan taper nozzles in breaking up jetsbefore they reach overhead lines.

10. Long-Boom IrrigatorsThe overall length of a boom on long-boomirrigators can be up to 80 metres and itsheight may be up to 5.6 metres. Some boomscan be folded and raised vertically for easymovement.

10.1 Risks

● When a boom is moved, particularly if it israised vertically, it could come intocontact with overhead lines.

● Moving over uneven or sloping groundcould cause the tip of the boom to swingabout and this could bring it into contactwith lines.

10.2 Controls

● A minimum clearance of 15 metres acrossthe ground from the tip of the boom tothe nearest overhead line isrecommended.

● If these machines are used near overheadlines, agree routes and operatingprocedures with ESB Networks.

● Access routes should be marked on thefarm map and should include routes formoving booms both between storage andfield sites and along the irrigation routes.

● When a machine is being moved or used itshould be kept under close observationand control.

● Booms should have a nylon orpolypropylene control rope at each end,with someone holding it.

● If a boom is assembled or dismantled onsite, this should be done well outside the15-metre clearance area.

● Make sure everyone knows the safetyprocedures.

● Check the jets are not near overhead linesand that they are fitted with jet-breakerdevices.


11. Low-PrecipitationSprinklers

11.1 Risks

● Contact with overhead lines when thepipes are being transported and put intoposition.

● Sprinklers being positioned too close toelectricity lines and equipment so thatwater comes into contact with them.

11.2 Controls

● Plan the layout for sprinkler systems sothey do not run close to overhead lines.

● Do not store pipes under or close tooverhead lines.

● Some pipes are so light that even childrencould lift them. Never leave pipes wherechildren or the public can gain access.Keep pipes chained up if possible.

● Always move pipes horizontally and asnear to the ground as possible, using twopeople to carry them.

● Make sure everyone knows about therisks, where the lines are and safeworking and storage procedures.

12. Fencing (Including ElectricFencing)

12.1 Risks

● If fencing wire is being stretched under orclose to an overhead line it could springupwards and come into contact with thelines, setting up a live circuit.

● Fencing across steep valleys could actuallytake you above the overhead lines andthere is a high risk that the fence wirewould come into contact with the line.

● Fences can become potential killers if anoverhead line falls on top of them.


12.2 Controls

● Check the farm map for the routes ofoverhead lines.

● Never lay a fence on your own.

● Be aware of the potential dangers offencing in valleys.

● Make sure everyone is aware of the riskswhen laying fences, and where the linesare.

● Always keep the wire under control – thisis particularly important in steep valleyswhere clearance may be reduced.

● Avoid erecting electric fences closer than6 metres to an overhead line.

● If a fence must cross under an overheadelectricity line, then ideally it should beplaced close to a pole or other supportingstructure (e.g. 1 to 2 metres from it) andshould cross at right angles to theoverhead line.

● Never use barbed wire for an electricfence line as it could trap a person oranimal, which would be very dangerous.

● Erect suitable warning notices on electricfences that are adjacent to public roads,footpaths or right-of-ways.

13. Ladders and Other LongConducting Objects

Modern ladders made of aluminium arelightweight and easy to manoeuvre, so it istempting to move them without retractingthem. Other lightweight and longconducting objects, such as aluminium-handle bull floats, copper or other metalpiping, metal eve guttering and steelreinforcing bars, present similar risks toaluminium ladders.

13.1 Risks

● When extended and held vertically, aladder may be long enough to makecontact with an overhead electricity line.The person carrying it could receive asevere electric shock, which may be fatal.The same risk applies to other longconducting objects.

13.2 Controls

● Make sure everyone works safely andknows that they must always reduceladders to their shortest length beforemoving them.

● Always carry ladders and other longconducting objects horizontally, andbelow shoulder level, i.e. close to theground.

● Do not leave ladders or long conductingobjects where children could climb ormove them, particularly near overheadlines.


14. Stacks and TemporaryStructures

Temporary structures such as potato boxes,stacks of bales, silage pits and manure heapshave to be sited somewhere. Farm andcontractors’ vehicles have to be parked. Aparticular job may require you to erecttemporary buildings.

Such temporary structures should not besited beneath or close to overhead lines asthis reduces clearances. Remember, directcontact does not have to be made –electricity can flash over if machinery orequipment comes close to overhead lines.

14.1 Risks

● Depending on their location relative tooverhead lines, anyone who climbs on topof a stack, machine or a structure may becloser to overhead lines and could comeinto contact with them or risk injury fromflashover.

● Mechanical equipment may be at riskfrom flashover while working at the stackor on any temporary structure.

14.2 Controls

● Use the farm map showing the routes ofoverhead lines as the basis for positioningstacks or temporary structures.

● Before positioning a stack or temporarystructure, think about the location ofoverhead lines and plan the structure wellaway from them. Do not site stacks ortemporary structures in an area wheremachinery has to travel beneath overheadlines to get to them.

● Keep records of the maximum height ofmachines and their loads. Use thisinformation when planning routes formoving machinery near overhead lines.

● Make sure everyone knows to keep stacksand lifting and handling equipment ahorizontal distance of at least 9 metresfrom an overhead line.


15. Fallen or Low-HangingWires

Bad weather (e.g. high winds, ice and snow,freezing rain), fallen timber or other wind-blown debris can damage electricity lines andbring overhead wires down. Always assumethat fallen or low-lying overhead wires arelive until ESB Networks informs you that thepower has been switched off. Even if anoverhead line appears not to be live, theauto re-close system may switch it on againautomatically until the system is de-activatedby ESB Networks.

15.1 Risks

● Damaged cables and broken conductorscan present risks to people and livestock.

● An overhead line trailing on the ground isprobably still live. Contact with it couldprove fatal.

● A loose power line may be lyingsomewhere difficult to see, for example ina tree or hedge.

● There is a high risk of accidental contact.

● Debris could be hanging from the line.

● The line could have fallen onto a wirefence, making the fence live over aconsiderable distance.

15.2 Controls

● Make sure everyone knows never toapproach a loose or trailing overhead line.

● After a storm or high winds, when theremay be a risk that power lines have beenbrought down, check the route of alloverhead lines. Have ESB Networks’ 24-hour emergency telephone numberreadily available, preferably on yourmobile phone – 1850 372 999.

● Contact ESB Networks’ emergencynumber, restrict access to the area ifnecessary and await the arrival of therepair crew. Always assume a cable is liveunless ESB Networks’ personnel arepresent and have confirmed that it hasbeen switched out and earthed.


16. Overhead Line ProximityDetectors

On taller machinery (higher than 5 metres)such as combine harvesters and forageharvesters/tractors that operate highequipment capable of making contact withoverhead lines, strong consideration shouldbe given to the fitting of overhead lineproximity detection equipment. Theassessment on fitting line detectionequipment should focus on the prevalenceand height of lines in the locations where themachinery is to be used, whether exclusivelyon the machine-owner’s farm or on otherfarms as well.

Overhead line detection devices operate onthe principal that all alternating currenttransmission systems in overhead networksgenerate an electromagnetic fieldsurrounding the transmission line. Thiselectromagnetic field can induce electricalcurrent in a detection device, which can, inturn, be used to indicate the presence of theelectromagnetic field (and hence theoverhead lines) and activate an alarm systemto warn of the presence of the overheadlines. This principle is used generally in alldevices intended to detect overhead lines inthe vicinity.

A line detection device is usually fitted in thecab of the equipment, with an aerialmounted on the outside.

Suppliers of agricultural machinery (reachingheights greater than 5 metres eitheroccasionally or continuously) should consideroffering the option of fitting overhead lineproximity detectors on machinery, given thatmachinery of this nature has the potential tomake contact with overhead power lines.


17. Cab SignagesAs a reminder to all drivers, a farmer,contractor or supplier should fit warningsigns in the cabs of any equipment capable ofmaking contact with overhead lines. Thesesigns (see Figure 17.1) are available free ofcharge from ESB Networks (Tel. 1850 372 757)and can be fixed to the appropriate part ofthe equipment to remind the operator of therisks of approaching overhead lines.

18. If the Worst Happens . . .If a machine or its attachments come intocontact with an overhead line, it could befatal for anyone who touches the machine.Do not rely on rubber tyres or rubber-soledboots for protection – they will not insulateagainst a high-voltage shock. Tyres can burstinto flames and boots can be destroyed.Figures 18.1, 18.2 and 18.3 illustrate thevarious steps that should be taken in theevent of a hit on an overhead electricity line.

Figure 18.1

18.1 Keep Clear

The driver of a vehicle that comes intocontact with overhead lines will usuallyremain safe in the cab of the vehicle. Peopleare at risk if they make simultaneous contactwith the vehicle and earth. Do not touch thevehicle or anything attached to it.


Figure 17.1Typical cabstickers(availablefree fromESBNetworks)

Figure 18.2

18.2 Get Help

You, or someone else, should contact ESBNetworks’ emergency number (1850 372 999)and ask for the power to be disconnectedimmediately. If you have a mobile phone orCB radio, use that. You should have ESBNetworks’ emergency telephone number ona warning sticker in the cab or preferably onyour mobile phone.

18.3 Jump!

If you have to leave the cab, jump well clearso that no simultaneous contact is madebetween you, the vehicle and the ground.Land on your feet and do not touch theground with your hands. Move away at onceusing short steps or bunny hop with bothfeet together. Remember that the line maystill be live or it may automatically beswitched on again at any time and you maybe close enough to be electrocuted.

Figure 18.3

18.4 Stay Clear

Do not go back to the vehicle, even if youthink it is safe to do so. It may still be live.Nobody should approach the vehicle untilESB Networks has confirmed that it is safe todo so.

18.5 Safe Operation

If the vehicle is not tangled with theoverhead line and if it can still be operated,back it carefully away until contact is broken.It may also be possible to lower a tipper orwithdraw a high-lift attachment, takingextreme care not to break the line as it mayfall onto your vehicle. Do not climb out ofthe vehicle or attempt to operate the vehiclewhile standing on the ground outside thevehicle.


19. Further Reading

ESB Networks

Farm Well Farm Safely

Health and Safety Authority

Code of Practice for Preventing Injury and Occupational Ill Health in Agriculture

Health and Safety Executive (UK)

Avoidance of Danger from Overhead Electric Power Lines, General Guidance Note GS6 (3rdedition), HSE Books, 1997, ISBN 0 7176 1348 8

Farmwise: Your Essential Guide to Health and Safety in Agriculture, Booklet MISC165, HSEBooks, 1999

Handling and Stacking Bales in Agriculture, Leaflet INDG125(rev1), HSE Books, 1998 (singlecopy free)

Safety in Working with Lift Trucks, HSG6 (3rd edition), UK Health and Safety Executive Books,2000, ISBN 0 7176 1781 5

Working Safely Near Overhead Power Lines, Agriculture Information Sheet AIS8 (rev2), HSEBooks, 2000

Farm Energy Centre (UK)

Handbook FEC2107 (4th edition), 1998, ISBN 1 847290 11 3, Farm Energy Centre, FEC ServicesLtd, NAC, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2LS, United Kingdom,


Appendix 1: Safety ChecklistsSafety Checklist for Overhead Electricity Lines in Agriculture


LANDOWNER’S CHECKLIST

Are there overhead electricity lines onthe land where work is to be carriedout?

Are there lines crossing yards, storage orloading/unloading areas could be hit?

Have I contacted ESB Networks (phone1850 372 757) to have the lines moved?

If lines can’t be moved, does my workinvolve equipment which could hit aline?

Have I mapped lines on my farm thatcould be hit?

Have I fixed safety warning stickers inthe cabs and the outside of tractors,forage harvestors, combines andanything else that could hit, or towsomething that could hit an overheadline (including trailers)? (Phone 1850 372757 for stickers issued free of charge)?

Will I need an outside contractor towork on land where an electricity line issituated?

Could the contractor’s equipment hit orcome close to the line?

Have I fulfilled my duty as a landowner,to advise the contractor of the presenceand the hazard of overhead electricitylines?

Do I and my employees know what todo if equipment we’re driving hits anoverhead line?

Do I and my employees know what todo if someone else’s equipment hits anoverhead line?

Yes No CONTRACTOR’S CHECKLIST

Have I assessed all my equipment as toits potential to make contact withoverhead lines?

Have I fixed safety warning stickers inthe cabs and the outside of forageharvestors, combines and anything elsethat could hit,or tow something thatcould hit an overhead line (includingtrailers)?

Have I assessed the local area and travelroutes, where I operate machinery, foroverhead lines?

Have I advised all my workers of thedangers of overhead lines?

Do I routinely check with the landownerfor the location of overhead lines beforestarting work with high equipment,including requesting maps of overheadlined?

Have I informed ESB Networks (Phone1850 372 757) and the landownerswhere overhead lines pose anunacceptable risk?

Have I ensured that I don’t have to tipany loads beneath an overhead line?

Have I assessed the need to install anoverhead line detector on myequipment?

Have I considered the danger ofoperating in the dark, where overheadlines are located?

Do I and my employees know what todo if our equipment hits an overheadline?

Do I and my employees know what todo if I see someone else’s equipmenthitting an overhead line?

Yes No

Appendix 2: Contacting ESBNetworks

Emergencies

For all emergencies, including contact withoverhead electricity lines, call:

1850 372 999

General Enquiries

For general queries in relation to ESBNetworks and overhead lines:

Tel: 1850 372 757

Email: [email protected]

See ESB Networks area office addresses at:www.esb.ie/esbnetworks

For all ESB Networks map records (overheadlines, underground cables and other plant):

Write to Central Site, ESB Networks,Osprey House, Lr Grand Canal Street,Dublin 2

Fax: 01 6388169.


Map records that have been requested as setout above will be delivered by post. Allow upto ten days for delivery. Map requests shouldinclude the following three pieces ofinformation:

1. A site map/area map with geographicreference.

2. A return postal address.

3. A telephone contact number.

Safety Materials

ESB Networks provides a range of safetymaterials, such as booklets, posters, cabsafety warning stickers and DVDs addressingthe issue of electrical safety. This material isfree and may be obtained from:

Tel: 1850 372 757


Some of this material is available for freedownload from www.esb.ie/esbnetworks.


ISBN No: 978-1-84496-136-8 HSA 0342

guidelinesfor safe working nearoverhead electricity linesin

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