Having these types of electric fences could get you arrested in South Africa

 ·16 Dec 2017

Electric fencing remains a popular security solution in South Africa, and alongside alarm systems and CCTV cameras, it remains a security staple for both commercial and residential property owners.

However, unlike other security options, by nature electric fencing is potentially dangerous as it is designed to physically deter any intruders looking to gain entry onto a property.

DSC Attorneys warns that any homeowner who does not have a valid Certificate of Compliance can be held civilly and criminally liable for injuries caused by the fencing.

“Electric fencing is made up of multiple strands of wire powered by an energiser or transformer. When properly installed and maintained, the energiser creates intermittent electronic pulses of up to 10,000 volts,” DSC Attorneys said.

“Because the electricity flowing through the wires is turned on and off every second, the system is not lethal when touched. When the transformer that converts low-voltage power to high-voltage power is faulty, or an animal or person gets entangled in loose wiring, there’s a risk of serious injury, and even death.”

“Children and people with heart problems or who have pacemakers are particularly vulnerable when subjected to continuous high-voltage electrical shocks.”

Criminally liable

Any homeowner who does not have a valid Certificate of Compliance, issued by a qualified electric fencing installer registered with the Department of Labour, can be held civilly and criminally liable for injuries by the fencing.

In addition, according to the Electrical Machinery Regulations of 2011, electric fencing that does not conform to the Electricity Security Installations Regulations outlined below is illegal:

  • it must be installed on a wall with a minimum height of 1.5 metres
  • if angled brackets are used, the maximum outward angle is 45 degrees and they must be installed on the inside of the boundary wall
  • neighbours’ consent is required if you plan to angle brackets into their property
  • the fencing must be installed and operate such that it won’t cause hazard or entanglement to people or animals
  • the maximum distance between posts is 3 metres
  • a minimum of three earth spikes must be installed for every 30 metres
  • electrification of barbed or razor wire is prohibited
  • yellow warning signs are required at all gates and access points
  • electrified gates must enable a person to open and close them without receiving a shock.

“A property owner whose electric fencing doesn’t comply with the regulations may face a hefty fine or jail time, especially if the fencing seriously injures someone,” said DSC Attorneys.

“If you or your child is injured by electric fencing that doesn’t comply with the electrical installation regulations, you may have a personal injury claim against the property owner responsible for the fencing,” it said.


Read: How long first-time buyers hold on to property for in SA

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