Eskom warns political parties against placing posters on electrical structures

Ahead of the upcoming May 29 elections, State-owned power utility Eskom has cautioned all political parties against the “dangerous practice” of placing election posters on electrical structures. The utility said in the past there had been incidents of electrocution whilst posters were being put up, which it said contravened the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Eskom warned of an inadvertent flash-over or electrical contact and said this could cause serious injuries and even be fatal. “As such, Eskom would like to caution all political parties against the dangerous practice of placing campaign posters on electrical structures. This includes electricity poles, electricity towers, meter boxes and mini substations,” the utility stated. Only authorised personnel are allowed to climb or work on the electrical structures, it pointed out.