Warning by ESB on high hay load dangers

FARMERS have been asked to take special care before ‘building loads too high’ when it comes to transporting bales of hay and straw in relation to overhead power lines.
ESB Networks issued the public safety warning to the farming community, pointing out that a load coming in contact with overhead electricity wires was extremely dangerous and could be fatal.
According to ESB Networks, electricity wires are erected at best international heights that permit the transit of loads safely – however, serious problems arise when loads are too high and interfere with live overhead electricity wires.
ESB Networks Public Safety Manager Arthur Byrne said that they were aware that this was a very busy time for farmers with hay and straw being saved and transported on roads around the country.
“We are concerned about a number of incidents where tractors pulling high loads of hay and straw, have come in contact with the overhead electricity network.
“In one case, where a high load pulled down live electricity wires, both the tractor and load caught fire. Thankfully the driver escaped injury, but it serves as a timely warning to the farming community on these hazards,” said Arthur Byrne.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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