KUCHING: Following the incident involving a van driver and school children at the Pan Borneo Highway
work site in Tatau on October 1, initial investigations by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) had found that the earthing cables were cut.
In a statement issued yesterday, SEB said the cables, believed to be stolen, were left in the open which resulted in the continuous flow of electricity.
Unfortunately, the school van driven by the 55-year-old woman hit the downed power line, causing the vehicle to catch fire. The woman suffered 53
percent burns to her body as a result of the crash.
The woman, who is now in a coma, was transporting five children including her son, to the nearby schools. Her 11-year-old son is in stable condition while the other four escaped unharmed.
“The incident also led to the loss of supply to the whole of Tatau town, including Tatau Clinic from 7am,” said SEB, adding that supply to Tatau town was restored at 9am while Tatau Clinic was restored at 1pm.
“The investigation team led by the Electrical Inspectorate Unit of the state Utilities Ministry, together with SEB personnel is currently investigating all possible angles over the cause of the fallen lines,” it added.
SEB has advised members of the public to stay at least five metres or 15 feet away from any fallen lines and to always assume that every fallen power line is energised.
“Alert SEB 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,” cautioned SEB.
In the event of fallen lines on vehicles, the public is advised to remain inside until help arrives and alert others to steer clear of 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. Continue to keep your feet together on the ground by jumping away at least 10 metres from the site.”
SEB emphasised that safety is their priority and urged third-party contractors to take extra precautions when working near power lines to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.
