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Installation of Energiser and Fence
Electric fences should be installed and operated so that they cause no
danger to persons, animals or surroundings and as far as is reasonably
practicable, they are out of reach of children and not subject to
mechanical damage. Never connect more than one energiser to the
same single or multi-wire fence. Any other fence systems powered
by a different energiser should be at least 2.5 metres apart. If this
gap is to be closed, use non-conductive material or an isolated metal
barrier. Any electric fence or part thereof installed along a public road
or pathway should be identified by warning signs at regular intervals.
The warning sign should have a yellow background and be
at least 100 mm x 200 mm. The words “Caution Electric
Fence” or symbol should appear in black, permanent
marking on both sides of the sign and be at least 25mm
in height.
• Barbed wire must not be electried.
• If an electric fence has to be installed in the vicinity of overhead
power lines it should not cross above it or run in parallel to it for any
great distance. If it is necessary to pass under overhead powerlines it
should be done at right angles and the vertical distance between any
fence wire and the surface of the earth should not exceed two metres.
• If an electric fence has to be installed near any communication lines,
the distance from the lines and the fence or any part of it should be
more than two metres.
• If the energiser is installed in the vicinity of any building, care must
be taken to ensure that the earth for the electric fence is more
than 10 metres away from any domestic electricity board earth or
telecommunications system earth.
• Follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper earthing of your
electric fence.
• Use insulated cable for connecting leads that run inside buildings
or underground. Take care to avoid damage from animal hooves or
vehicle tyres and use a conduit of insulating material if needed.
• Do not install connecting leads in the same conduit as the mains
supply wiring, communication cables or data cables.
• Low output energisers provide satisfactory and safe performance for
deterring birds, household pets and training animals such as cows.
Before You Start
