Whether you're building a temporary or permanent structure, carrying out building works or operating major machinery near overhead power lines, safety is our number one priority. This is why we've created the relevant safety information to help our customers take the necessary precautions and follow the correct steps when around overhead power lines.
Depending on the work involved and the type of cable you're working near, you may either need to cover your power line (also known as shrouding) or notify us and request for one of our engineers to provide you with the relevant safety advice (GS6 site safety visit).
Covering your power line (shrouding)
This is typically requested by customers working near overhead power lines which connect directly to their property. As part of this service we're able to cover a portion of the power line to allow customer to work safely around them.
Advice about working near power lines (GS6)
This service is for customers who are working or building near larger power lines which usually connect from pole to pole and require safety advice on safely working around these power lines.
Notifying us
It’s a legal requirement that you notify us in advance if you’re building a temporary or permanent structure within close proximity of power lines. This can be done when you complete our GS6 request form and is a crucial step in ensuring that your project complies with Regulation 18(3) of the Electricity, Quality & Continuity Regulations 2002 (ESQCR). It’s all about keeping your building at a safe distance from power lines and avoid any future needs to relocate our electrical equipment, which could result in additional charges or legal proceedings by the HSE.
Safety around power lines
You should always treat electricity power lines as being live. If you see them hanging low, damaged or grounded, please stay at least 10 metres away from the equipment and call us 24 hours a day on 0800 31 63 105 or 105. If you think they're causing significant risk to the public, please call 999.
