To mark Farm Safety Week, which takes place from 20-24 July, the organisation, which operates the region’s power network, is urging farmers to look out, look up and not dice with death around powerful electrical equipment.
Over the past year, 14 incidents throughout the North West involving overhead power lines have been reported to the network operator and it’s possible that more may go unreported.
Previous research carried out by Electricity North West and other electricity network operators across the country showed that despite potentially fatal consequences, more than 85% of people in the UK never worry about getting too close to an overhead power line.
Now in its eighth year, Farm Safety Week is an initiative organised by the Farm Safety Foundation which brings attention to the number of serious incidents and fatal injuries in the industry and highlight what is being done.
Paul Turner, head of safety and policy at Electricity North West, said: “Each year, Farm Safety Week allows us to remind farmers about the dangers of working close to overhead lines.
“When heading into the fields, it’s essential farmers assess the work areas and they make a conscious effort to stay safe by working away from electrical equipment.
“This year, we’ve received a number of calls from farmers whose machinery has collided with overhead lines, thankfully, nobody has been hurt but it doesn’t deflect how serious these incidents are.
“The electricity network includes thousands of miles of overhead lines many of which are in rural areas that are home to the North West’s farming communities.
“I urge anyone working on a farm to look out and look up.”
David Hall, NFU North West regional director, added: ““Every year there are incidents involving power lines on farms – all of which are totally avoidable.
“My advice to my fellow farmers in the region is firstly make sure everyone knows where the lines crossing your land are.
“This means the farmer, their staff and visitors – especially delivery drivers and harvest staff. Don’t stack under or near lines.
“Lastly check the height of lines on your land. If there is a problem and they are too low get in touch with Electricity North West and get the problem solved.”
If equipment collides with overhead lines, stay in the cab and call Electricity North West immediately on 105 so engineers can remove power safely. To find out more crucial advice watch the hard-hitting ‘Look Out Look Up’ video.
