Eskom highlights 200 public electricity-related injuries and deaths in the past year
Image: Independent Newspapers Archives
Eskom reported 200 public injuries and fatalities related to electricity incidents in the past year, highlighting ongoing risks associated with electricity use across South Africa. These figures are believed to be underreported, as many cases go unrecorded due to communities protecting illegal connections.
August has been designated Electricity Safety Month to raise awareness about the dangers posed by electricity and to promote safe practices at home, in workplaces, and within communities.
The initiative aims to reduce the risk of harm to the public, as well as to employees and contractors working with electrical systems.
'Many electricity-related injuries and deaths go unreported to Eskom because communities feel compelled to protect the illegal connections responsible for these incidents,' said Miranda Moahlodi, Eskom's senior manager for Health and Safety.
She also noted the rise in criminal activities targeting electricity infrastructure, including vandalism, cable theft, and attacks on Eskom staff.
Illegal connections and exposed wiring present serious threats to public safety and infrastructure.
Moahlodi urged the public to report these hazards without delay.
'Poorly installed or tampered electrical lines are leading causes of fires in informal settlements and residential areas,' she said. 'By reporting hazards early, we can prevent fires that devastate homes and disrupt people's lives.'
The campaign stresses that community safety is a shared responsibility. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report risks such as low-hanging wires, open electrical boxes, or unsafe connections on streets, rooftops, or trees.
'We appeal to communities to help us curb the aggression and violence that Eskom employees are subjected to,' added Moahlodi. 'Like everyone else, we also have families waiting for us at home after work.'
Eskom advises the public to regularly inspect their electrical systems, follow safety guidelines, and promptly report any hazards to help prevent accidents. Reports of illegal connections or exposed wiring can save lives, especially those of children or others unaware of the risks.
To report crimes or illegal activities impacting Eskom infrastructure, the public can contact the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22.
THE MERCURY
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