• SP Energy Networks has teamed up with TV and radio presenter Nicki Chapman to launch a two-part video series packed with top tips to stay safe while sprucing up your garden.
• The partnership follows new research revealing that while 90%[1]of us plan to take on a garden project this year, many are overlooking hidden electrical hazards lurking above and below ground.

With the summer gardening season winding down, SP Energy Networks has partnered with much-loved TV and radio presenter Nicki Chapman to launch a two-part video series designed to keep gardening enthusiasts safe while working outdoors – whether tending late blooms, preparing for autumn, or planning next year’s beds.

The ‘Know Before You Go’ campaign comes in response to new research from SP Energy Networks revealing that 90%1 of us planned some sort of garden project this year – with 22% tackling major makeovers. But here’s the shocking bit: 48% have never checked for underground cables, overhead lines, or hidden utilities before digging in. Of those, 46% said it’s because they just assumed it was safe. And almost third of us (32%[2]) admit we don’t even know what electrical hazards to look out for.

The video series, available via our website, offers easy-to-follow advice for identifying hidden electrical risks in gardens – whenever you’re out working in it – and taking simple precautions before picking up tools. From using free utility plans and safe digging practices to knowing when it’s time to call in the experts, Nicki Chapman meets with two amateur gardeners to deliver essential guidance in an approachable, practical style.

“I love getting stuck into the garden, but I know how easy it is to forget what’s going on under the soil or above your head,” says Nicki Chapman. “With just a few quick checks, you can protect yourself and your garden – and still have plenty of time for a well-earned cuppa in the sunshine. This partnership is all about giving people the know-how to tackle their projects safely and confidently, so they can enjoy the results without any nasty surprises.”

Derek Bell, SP Energy Networks Health and Safety Director added: “Gardening should be relaxing and rewarding – not risky. This series shows how just a little preparation can make all the difference. Whether you’re planting, putting up a fence, or taking on a full-scale garden makeover, knowing what’s above, below, and around you can help prevent accidents and keep your project on track. From the smallest flower bed to a brand-new driveway, safety is the first step to making your garden dreams a reality.”

SP Energy Networks’ ‘Know Before You Go’ series includes top tips for staying safe:

• Before starting any work in your garden – whether yourself or with a contractor – take time to assess any potential electrical hazards – from overhead lines to underground cables and make sure safe practices are followed at all times. Visit the SP Energy Networks safety websiteto find out more and get access to all the info you need.
• Make sure you look out and look up for overhead lines – and check overhead line poles for the yellow danger of death warning. It’s there for a reason.
• Check whether there are likely to be any underground cables buried on your property – visit linesearchbeforeUdig online or contact SP Energy Networks for free utility plans.
• It’s vital to know where any underground cables are, so call in the professionals. Bringing in specialist cable avoidance scanners will ensure you know what’s where before you get to work – and safe digging practices must be followed at all times.
• Use the right machinery and equipment to complete the works safely – think working distances and clearance heights so nothing comes near or into contact with overhead power lines.
• Carry long objects horizontally and low to keep them away from any overhead lines.
• Always treat power lines as live – even if they have fallen to the ground, broken or aren’t sparking.
• Call 105 in the event of an electrical network emergency. If anyone is injured or requires medical assistance, dial 999 immediately.

For further information on SP Energy Networks’ collaboration with Nicki Chapman and to watch the full series, go to spenergynetworks.co.uk/news/pages/garden_risks.aspx.