22 August 2007 11:16 Central Networks urges farmers to take care while harvesting

Central Networks, E.ON UK's electricity distribution company for central England, is putting out a special safety warning for farmers harvesting crops after three potentially life threatening incidents in one day.

The incidents happened in Deenthorpe and Roade in Northamptonshire and Old Leake in Lincolnshire within hours of each other. Overhead wires were brought down by combine harvesters and power was lost to customers.

Stephen Hennell, Senior Operational Safety Advisor at Central Networks, said: "It's remarkable that we should get three incidents in one day but it's clear that the drivers were very fortunate to escape serious injury or even death.

"Now that there is a break in the wet weather and crops are ready to harvest, it's important that farmers and agricultural contractors don't overlook the need for care when working near overhead power lines.

"Farm owners must ensure that, when contractors are being used to carry out harvesting activities, they are made aware of the location of overhead power lines from the farm plan before they start work.

"It's also essential that farm workers operating machinery take a little time to make sure they know where overhead lines are, take into account the height of the equipment they're using and how much clearance under the power lines they need.

"In addition, bright sunshine during the day, or a low setting sun in the evening, can make it more difficult to spot power lines, so these simple safety precautions are really important, especially when you may be rushing to get something done.

"Large machinery, elevated farm equipment and overhead power lines are a potentially lethal combination."

For general enquiries or advice when working near to overhead lines call the CableSafe helpline on 0800 015 0927.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• Central Networks brings power to 4.9 million customers across central England through 133,000km of underground and overhead cables and via almost 97,000 substations;
• Central Networks covers an area from the Peak District in the north to parts of Bristol in the south, and from the Welsh Boarders to the Lincolnshire Coast.

For further information contact:

Deanna Mooney on 024 7618 3678