The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and ESB Networks have today (November 25th) announced a new joint safety campaign to raise awareness of the significant electrical risks associated with working near the electricity network, and the dangers of deliberate interference with infrastructure.

The joint initiative comes as ESB Networks reported a concerning 40% increase in the number of Stop Work Notices issued by its technicians in 2024. These notices are enforced when unsafe work is identified near live electrical infrastructure, such as overhead lines or underground cables.

Greg Beechinor, Senior Inspector at the HSA, reminded employers of their duty: "Before commencing any work near the electricity network, employers are reminded to engage with ESB Networks in advance and ensure a safe system of work is in place. This applies to work activities such as digging, retrofitting homes with external insulation... or erecting scaffolding close to overhead lines."

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The campaign targets employers, contractors, and workers across all sectors, urging them to prioritise planning and consultation.

Claire Mulholland, Public Safety Manager at ESB Networks, stressed that most incidents are avoidable: “The danger often comes from a lack of awareness or assumptions that infrastructure is inactive or safe to work around. If you are planning work near ESB Networks infrastructure, please talk to us first."

Both organisations mandate that all work activities near ESB Networks infrastructure must be carried out in accordance with relevant Codes of Practice, specifically those for Avoiding Danger from Overhead Electricity Lines and Underground Services.

Employers and workers are asked to never interfere with ESB Networks equipment and to contact ESB Networks in advance of any planned works on 1800 372 757.