Clemson Agricultural Safety

Electric Fence Safety Quiz Answers

Questions

1. What kind of wire should not be used on electric fences?
2. True or false: it is okay to run electric fences parallel to overhead powerlines?
3. How often should warning signs be placed on electric fences that are accessible to the public?
4. True or false: you should not attach electric fence wires to utility poles?
5. How far should energizer grounds be from utility grounds?

Answers

1. Barbed wire
2. False
3. 300 feet
4. True
5. 65 feet

Safety Information – March 2022

Electric Fence Safety

Electric fences are standard in many farming operations. They serve as an added barrier in most livestock operations. While many farmers are often familiar with this equipment, there are still many important safety factors to consider when installing, repairing, and utilizing electric fences.

1. Do not attempt to connect multiple energizers to one fence.
2. Electric fences can produce sparks. Do not place flammable objects near energized fences and in the event of a drought, place the energizer in low power mode if the option is available.
3. Energizer grounds should be a minimum of 65 feet from utility grounds.
4. Try to run electric fences perpendicular to overhead powerlines.
5. Do not attach electric fences wires to utility poles.
6. Per law, landowners are responsible for preventing audible interference with telephone lines. To do so, avoid running electric fences under and parallel to telephone lines.
7. Do not place electric fences close to radio towers.
8. Do not touch electric fences. Consult your doctor before working on or around electric fences if you have a pacemaker.
9. Do not use barbed wire for electric fences. This increases the chances for people or animals to become entangled in them.
10. Post warning signs every 300 feet where the public has access to electric fences, i.e., along roadways.

Ag Injury News Report – March 2022

Ag Injury News Report

2/11/2022: Alabama man killed in accident involving farm tractor
2/11/2022: Person dead after firefighters, volunteers respond to grain bin rescue
2/7/2022: Injured Pine River man rescued from silo
2/3/2022: Ore. FF dies from injuries sustained in barn fire
2/3/2022: Deadly Fire At Bennington Horse Farm Ruled An Accident
1/31/2022: Brownfield Area Farmer Involved In Horrible Tractor Accident
1/28/2022: Father on bulldozer hits, kills 7-year-old son