SAFETY ADVICE FOR FARMERS

In the last two years there have been over 125 incidences of farm related damage to the electricity network in Northern Ireland. Many of these events resulted in serious injury, any of them could have resulted in a fatality.

Before you cut that hedgerow, trim those trees, spread slurry or cut silage, be aware of electricity poles and powerlines.

• Check the hedgerows and fields for electricity poles and overhead powerlines.
• Stay wires are attached to some poles to provide stability for the overhead powerlines – check if there are any in the vicinity of your work. If you do damage a staywire, contact NIE immediately.
• Be aware of the presence of overhead powerlines and know their routes
• Avoid operating plant or using equipment where any part is likely to approach close to, or touch, overhead powerlines
• Be particularly careful when moving plant or equipment from one place to another, especially with tall machines or those with long booms.
• If you have contractors working around your farm, remember to point out the location of poles, overhead lines and underground cables so they can work safely.

Slurry Spreading

Liquid slurry can conduct electric currents and therefore spraying devices could become live if the jets were to come in contact with overhead lines.

If a jet from a slurry tanker makes contact with electrical equipment, there is a risk that vehicle will become ‘live’ and electricity will pass through the body of anyone in contact with the machine. All forms of liquid manure, particularly when sprayed from tankers, should be kept well clear of electrical plant and all types of overhead lines.

Another important consideration is that high-density spray left lying on electricity lines leads to a breakdown of insulation, which in recent cases has damaged equipment and led to power cuts for many customers in the immediate vicinity. Liquid manure is corrosive and causes long term damage to the electrical network.

Be aware of the electricity network when cutting silage, trimming hedgerows or spraying crops.

Next: Hidden dangers on the farm 

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