Electric fence installations subject to safety regulations
Electric fencing is a popular security solution in South Africa which, along with alarm systems and CCTV cameras, is used as a deterrent to would-be burglars. However, by nature it is potentially dangerous.
What happens if a fault occurs and who's liable if someone gets hurt? Before you jet off on holiday this festive season its worth checking that all is in order.
This is according to DSC Attorneys partner Kirstie Haslam, who says that any homeowner who does not have a valid Certificate of Compliance, issued by a qualified electric fencing installer registered with the Department of Labour, can be held civilly and criminally liable for injuries caused by the fencing.
According to the Electrical Machinery Regulations of 2011, electric fencing that does not conform to the Electricity Security Installations Regulations outlined below is illegal.
Electricity security installations regulations
By law, electric fencing has to comply with the following regulations:
Haslam says that a property owner whose electric fencing doesn't comply with the regulations may face a hefty fine or jail time, especially if the fencing seriously injures someone.
Claims for injury due to electric fencing
"If you or your child is injured by electric fencing that doesn't comply with the electrical installation regulations, you may have a personal injury claim against the property owner responsible for the fencing," she explains.
She continues: "It is worthwhile seeking an attorney that specializes in personal injury claims should this happen. They can assess your claim, help prepare supporting evidence and represent you in legal proceedings, giving you the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve."
How electric fencing works
Electric fencing is made up of multiple strands of wire powered by an energiser or transformer. "When properly installed and maintained, the energiser creates intermittent electronic pulses of up to 10 000 volts, she says. Because the electricity flowing through the wires is turned on and off every second, the system is not lethal when touched."
What happens when things go wrong?
When the transformer that converts low-voltage power to high-voltage power is faulty, or an animal or person gets entangled in loose wiring, there's a risk of serious injury, and even death.
Haslam points out that children and people with heart problems or who have pacemakers are particularly vulnerable when subjected to continuous high-voltage electrical shocks.
DSC Attorneys Press Release
Posted at 09:39AM Dec 11, 2017 by Editor in Residential |