By LUCY OSUIZIGBO-OKECHUKWU

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) says absence and poor earthing systems contribute to the growing risk of electrocution in buildings across the South-East.

Dr Francis Iwu, Group Head, Health, Safety and Environment at EEDC, made the assertion on Friday at the ongoing three-day Town Hall/ Complaint Resolution Forum for customers in Awka.

The forum is organised by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA).

Iwu described the situation as a critical safety failure, adding that such oversight has contributed to loss of lives and property.

He urged homeowners, developers and facility managers to ensure proper electrical earthing to safeguard lives and property.

According to him, the absence of earthing systems in buildings, has over the years, claimed lives and destroyed property.

He added that other several unsafe practices and customer attitudes have also increased the risk of electrocution.

“These includes leaving electrical appliances on during power outages; poor grounding of electrical systems; overloading of electrical circuits; and unsafe use of pressing irons and ring boilers.

“Others are illegal electrical connections; double sourcing which is being connected to two transformers at the same time; meter bypassing; and engaging non-EEDC personnel for unauthorised operations,” he said.

Iwu further pointed to acts of vandalism; the use of substandard materials; and reliance on unqualified electricians for house wiring as contributing factors to electrical hazards.

He described as dangerous such practices as, erecting antennas and billboards under or near power lines; planting trees too close to power lines; and constructing buildings under power lines.

Iwu emphasised the urgent need for public awareness and compliance with electrical safety standards to prevent further casualties.

“EEDC continues to urge customers to engage certified professionals for electrical installations and to report any unsafe practices in their communities,” he said. (NAN)