UK Power Networks is increasing its public service message by running a 'Think before you drill' initiative to raise awareness of the dangers of electricity, and importance of trades people locating cables before starting work.
Over the years, there has been a steady rise in safety incidents whereby trades people have accidently drilled into service cables, resulting in electric shocks and burns, which in some cases required hospital treatment.
But the reality of coming into contact with electricity can be much more serious: life can be lost within seconds or terrible life-changing burns inflicted.
The electricity DNO has vast cable networks which are responsible for delivering more than a quarter of the UK’s electricity, making sure the lights stay on across London, the South East and the East of England. It has a strong safety record, and part of that success is to raise awareness across many industries of the potential dangers of coming into contact with the electricity network.
Take your time, think electricity
The ‘Think before your drill’ initiative aims to remind workers including builders, electricians, plumbers, engineers to:
- Work safe
- Make use of cable locating tools
- Think electricity!
Electricity cables can be located overhead, buried underground or run through walls. Simply taking a moment to accurately locate hidden service cables before starting work at a property can avoid potential disaster and ultimately mean workers return home safely that night to their family and friends.
Get informed
Everyone has the right to go home safe to their families at the end of each working day, so make sure you, your colleagues and employees are working safely.
UK Power Networks has put together a wealth of leaflets, films and information which can be downloaded for free from their website, including:
For more information on electrical safety, visit UK Power Networks or the HSE website
Keeping up to date with your electrical qualifications is important too, click here for more information.