For emergencies:
Call 1800 372 999
When should I get line insulation?
A line insulation service may be required when you are carrying out any of the following work on your premises near an ESB Networks overhead line:
- Erecting scaffolding
- Undertaking works off a ladder, such as painting or creating murals
- Undertaking roof works off a mobile elevated work platform (MEWP)
- Or any other works which are adjacent to the overhead line
ESB Networks temporarily insulate the conductors by applying temporary shrouding to the conductors.
Useful information
How to apply
In the situation you need to get line insulation, you must consult with ESB Networks to agree:
- Site specific arrangements; and
- Control measures for each individual conflict.
For example, if you’re intending to erect scaffolding, you should inform our network technician on site, describing where the scaffolding is to be located and the width of the scaffolding, so that our network technician can apply an adequate length of temporary shrouding along the overhead line.
You can apply for the line insulation service by calling the ESB Networks Customer Contact Centre (NCCC) at 1800 372 757.
Once the application has been processed, we aim to complete the work within 10 working days. However, this timeframe will be longer in large urban areas so please contact us to give us as much notice as possible.
Charges
The line insulation service is free of charge.
Warning
ESB Networks can apply temporary shrouding on low-voltage overhead lines. Work adjacent to higher voltage overhead lines such as 10kV or 20kV conductors requires the line to be switched out.
Generally low-voltage overhead lines are composed of bare wire conductor as well as bundle conductor. The difference is that bundle conductor has a thin layer of plastic sheathing over the conductor. Bundle conductor is not insulated, and you can get an electric shock from it. You still need to contact us to arrange to have temporary insulation applied.
If low-voltage overhead line conductors have been temporarily shrouded or appear to be insulated, this does not mean that they are safe to touch. The effectiveness of shrouding or insulation will depend on conditions such as the prevailing weather conditions.
If this insulation appears to be damaged or dislodged, stop all work within 3 metres of the damaged area and notify ESB Networks immediately.