Man electrocuted at Hammanskraal main substation

He was found over the 11kV Bus Coupler isolator structure, Eskom said in a statement.

“Preliminary investigation report indicated that an Eskom technician found the man when he attended to a no-supply call at the sub-station. It appears the deceased gained access to the substation through the broken locked gate meant to prevent unauthorised entry into the substation as the lock was found cut,” the power utility said.

Tshwane emergency management services (EMS) and the SAPS pathology forensic services declared the man dead on the scene.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and we extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased. We are concerned about the increase in theft and vandalism of our infrastructure as these illegal activities have resulted in too many injuries and deaths.

“We have intensified our customer education to raise awareness on the dangers of illegal operations on our network as an intervention to reduce such illegal acts,” said Kith Maitisa, of Eskom in Gauteng

He said that Eskom would continue to intensify its efforts to safeguard its assets by partnering with police and other law enforcement agencies to ensure that illegal activities were contained and avoided.

Members of the public and individuals are further encouraged to report any persons interfering with the electricity network and those conducting any illegal activities, to the Eskom crime line on 0800 11 27 22.