Agriland Media Group is delighted to collaborate with ESB Networks to bring you the ESB Networks Winter Safety Series.

Storm safety can be useful information to know, particularly for farmers. From Ashley to Wren, the names of the storms for the 2024-2025 season have been decided, but their impact has not.

Since prevention is preferable to intervention – and far less costly – ESB Networks has put together some storm safety tips to limit the potential for accidents during storm season.

ESB Networks safety tips for hedge cutting

  1.  Look out for any damage on machinery that may become unattached in operation;
  2. The circular saw is by far the most dangerous attachment; keep onlookers away from its operation;
  3. Place guards around the tractor cab to protect from flying debris from the hedge.
  4. Keep windows clean to maximise visibility;
  5. Use appropriate signage and warning lamps when working on the road;
  6. Take a minute to look at the ground conditions and the field slope before starting work;
  7. Have the ESB Networks emergency number in the tractor -1800 372 999;
  8. Look out for overhead wires in dense foliage and high ditches;
  9. Match the hedge cutter size and tractor size;
  10. If unsure, stop and don’t ask questions later.

If you are planning to cut tree or trim hedges on your property, be aware that any trees or vegetation close to electricity wires or ESB Networks’ equipment presents a significant safety hazard.

Electricity can jump gaps, which means that you don’t need to come into direct contact with a live electricity wire, or electrical equipment, to be seriously injured or killed.

If you are planning to cut tree or trim hedges on your property, be aware that any trees or vegetation close to electricity wires or ESB Networks’ equipment presents a significant safety hazard.

Electricity can jump gaps, which means that you don’t need to come into direct contact with a live electricity wire, or electrical equipment, to be seriously injured or killed.

ESB Networks Winter Safety Series