Hope Ntanzi|Published
Eskom has warned political parties and election campaign teams against putting up campaign posters on its electricity infrastructure, saying the practice could expose people to electric shocks, severe burns, serious injuries or death.
The warning comes as the power utility says it has observed an increase in election-related posters attached to electricity poles, mini-substations, transformers and other electrical infrastructure ahead of the November 4 local government elections.
Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena said the appeal applied to political parties, independent candidates, supporters, campaign teams, advertising agencies and members of the public.
“While electioneering is an important part of South Africa’s democratic process, electricity infrastructure must not be used for advertising or promotional purposes due to the significant safety risks involved,” Mokwena said.
Eskom warns of electrical dangers
The utility said people who climb poles, use ladders or work close to live electrical equipment to install or remove campaign posters risked serious injury or death.
“The risk arises when individuals climb poles, use ladders, or work in close proximity to live electrical equipment while installing or removing posters. Such activities can expose people to electric shock, severe burns, serious injury or even death,” Mokwena said.
Eskom also warned that unauthorised attachments could damage infrastructure, obstruct inspections and maintenance activities, and compromise safe access to electrical equipment needed to maintain a reliable electricity supply.
The utility said the prohibition on attaching unauthorised material to its infrastructure applied throughout the year, and was not limited to the election campaign period.
Eskom urges parties to use authorised advertising structures
Eskom urged all election stakeholders to use authorised advertising structures instead of attaching campaign material to electricity infrastructure.
“Members of the public are reminded to always treat all electrical installations as live and dangerous,” Mokwena said.
The utility said unsafe activities involving its infrastructure should be reported through its customer service channels or local operating offices.
It added that unauthorised material attached to its infrastructure could be removed where necessary to protect public safety and ensure access to critical infrastructure.
IOL News