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Updated Jul 5, 2013

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HSE NI promote dangers on farms

Following a number of recent incidents, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSE NI) is reminding farmers of the dangers of working with machinery near overhead electricity power lines.

Malcolm Downey, Head of the HSE NI's Farm Safety Team said, "Overhead power lines pose a particular danger at this time of year when silage is being harvested and when slurry is being spread. Electricity from power lines can jump gaps when equipment or machinery gets close enough, so you don't need to make contact to be injured."

He continued, "I'd urge farmers to 'look up and look out' when operating machinery or equipment around overhead power lines. Make sure you, and any contractors you hire, know where power lines cross your fields or farm yard and take care to avoid them."

The HSE NI have echoed previous advice given by Northern Ireland Electricity, and published the following tips to keep you and others safe:

  • allow adequate clearance for machinery and equipment to pass under overhead power lines – avoid using if in doubt;
  • before cutting trees, trimming hedges, spreading slurry or harvesting silage make sure you are aware of electricity poles, overhead lines and any supporting stay wires;
  • if you have contractors on your farm show them where poles, overhead lines and underground cables are;
  • take extra care when moving plant machinery or equipment, especially high machines or those with long booms;
  • avoid raising spray booms, tipper lorries or telescopic handlers near overhead electricity lines.

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