ESB Networks has issued a safety warning to the three presidential candidates, strictly prohibiting the placement of election posters on electricity poles due to serious public safety risks.
The electricity provider released a statement this morning reminding candidates and their campaign teams that erecting posters on electrical infrastructure “is strictly prohibited and poses a serious safety risk to members of the public as well as ESB Networks staff and contractors.”
The warning comes with stark safety concerns, as ESB Networks explained that attaching materials to electricity poles “exposes individuals to the risk of electric shock, burns and falling from a height.” The company’s wires and equipment remain constantly live, creating ongoing hazards for anyone who comes into contact with them.
ESB Networks cited previous incidents where posters attached to poles caused the infrastructure to catch fire and fall, creating dangerous situations for the public. Weather conditions compound these risks, as heavy rain or strong winds can detach posters, potentially causing them to make contact with live electrical wires.
The removal process also presents significant safety challenges for ESB staff and contractors. Claire Mulholland, ESB Networks’ public safety manager, noted that “the removal of posters from electricity poles can pose significant safety risks to ESB Networks staff, which can result in severe injuries.”
In some cases, the company has been forced to interrupt electricity supply to households and businesses to safely remove posters from electrical infrastructure, causing inconvenience to customers.
ESB Networks reminded the public to maintain distance from electricity wires and cables at all times, as these remain live and potentially dangerous. Anyone who observes a potentially hazardous situation or experiences an emergency involving the electricity network should contact ESB Networks’ 24-hour emergency line at 1800 372 999.
The warning serves as a crucial safety reminder as campaign activities intensify ahead of the presidential election.