Accra traders turn electrical transformers into warehouses
Electricity transformers meant for regulation and management of electrical energy is now becoming a warehouse and tables for the display of goods by some traders and a section of the public in the country.
The Mirror investigations have revealed that a section of the public also continue to erect structures close to Overhead Powerlines (OHPLs), in blatant disregard for the dangers associated with living close to transformers and OHPL.
Advertisement
Our rounds also revealed that in most cases, traders and a section of the public use most transformers, especially those at the commercial centres, as tables and shelves where they display their goods for sale, storage and safe-keeping after trading activities in the night.
For others, it is a comfortable place to lodge.
In some communities, it is common to find some squatters erect makeshift structures as places of abode close to transformers, while others also site their refuse dump close to transformers and burn the rubbish at random.
Besides, others sit behind transformers to have a chat with their friends while some advertisers find it convenient to post their advertisements.
Similarly, those who have no place to sleep in the commercial centres like Kwame Nkrumah Circle, were seen sleeping close to some of these transformers.
ECG reaction
Reacting in an interview with The Mirror on the safety and security of the menace, management of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) asked the public to stay away from the energised facility, indicating that the practice is against the ECG regulations on public safety.
A food vendor operating around a transformer
Touching on a document on “Safety Implications of ECG Network Encroachment” made available to The Mirror, the General Manager in charge of safety, Mr James Ato Graham, explained that by ECG regulations, the public should maintain a minimum of three metres clearance from such facilities.
‘This is to protect life and property of the public by ensuring the safety of the public from live conductors and equipment. ECG also provides adequate information to the public on all hazardous situations that pose threat to life,” he explained.
A drinking spot sited close to an overhead powerline.
According to Mr Graham, the people put themselves at risk by living close to live overhead powerlines and transformers because there is a possibility of flashover occurring when a person or object gets too close to a power line.
He noted that, “accidental contact with live overhead powerlines kills people and causes many serious injuries annually while down lines can be dangerous and even deadly.”
The general manager advised the public not to indulge in any acts that would expose them to dangers related to powerlines, either by attempting to move them down, living near them or attempt to steal them.
Electricity equipment have become a refuse dump and a notice board for advertisers.
As part of precautionary measures, the “ECG has been carrying out outreach programmes to sensitise the public not to erect structures under overhead powerlines, hang their clothes on power equipment at the substations, nor turn substations into their place of abode,” Mr Graham stated.
Electrical safety tit-bits
Electricity has become a useful tool for cooking, heating, powering our industries, etc, but it can be harmful as well.
• Do not overload your electrical sockets.
• Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances when not in use
• Do not run electrical wires (chords) under carpets.
• Premises with over 25 years of electrical wiring should be re- wired to avoid starting of fires.
• Use of inferior electrical cables and devises are potential causes of fire. If in doubt, contact a certified electrician.
• Unauthorised electrical connections must be discouraged.
Credit: Ghana Fire Service