NEWS & UPDATES

KUCHING, 3 OCTOBER 2019, THURSDAY: Sarawak Energy deeply regrets the unfortunate incident involving a van driver and a child at the Pan Borneo Highway work site in Tatau and has immediately launched a thorough investigation into the cause of the fallen lines.

The investigation team led by Electrical Inspectorate Unit of the Ministry of Utilities Sarawak, together with Sarawak Energy personnel is currently investigating all possible angles over the cause of the fallen lines.

Initial investigations show that the earthing cables was cut, believed to be stolen by cable thieves resulting in the failure of the safety measures, leaving the line energised during the incident.

The incident also led to the loss of supply to the whole of Tatau town, including Tatau Clinic from 7am. Supply to Tatau Town was restored at 9am, while the Tatau Clinic was restored at 1pm.

Sarawak Energy would like to advise the public to stay clear at least 5m or 15feet away from any fallen lines and always assume every fallen power line is energised and to alert Sarawak Energy immediately for assistance at 1300 88 3111.

A fallen line creates a voltage change on the ground surface, and movements such as walking or running near the lines could cause electrocution as electricity can travel through the body.

In the event of fallen lines on vehicles, public are advised to remain inside the vehicle until help arrives and alert others to keep clear and not to touch the vehicle. If one must leave the vehicle due to other dangers such as fire, jump away from the vehicle with both feet on the ground at the same time. Always continue to keep your feet together on the ground by jumping away at least 10m from the site.

Sarawak Energy prioritises safety and urges third-party contractors to take extra precautions when working near power lines to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.