§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what plans he has to ensure that annual inspections of 33kV power lines are carried out by electricity companies. [27496]
§ Mr. BattleRegulation 24 of the Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 (as amended) (SI 1988 No. 1057) states the
The Supplier shall take all reasonably practicable steps to inspect his installations and works to ensure compliance with these regulations".In carrying out these inspections they will have regard to various regulations which cover overhead lines and the height of conductors, anti-climbing guards and safety signs, sky wires and insulators and general design requirements for sufficiency for purpose.
Therefore, companies inspect lines at different frequencies dependent on several factors including the voltages involved and the risk of unauthorised climbing and interference.
I have no plans at present to change these arrangements.