Ergon Energy Crews Under Threat From Aggro Dogs And Customers

Dogs, wildlife and aggressive people are among the leading causes of incidents involving Ergon crews and contractors across Queensland.

After 289 reported incidents state-wide in the last 12 months, Ergon’s metering contracts manager Sarah Bradford is appealing to customers to do their bit to keep workers safe.

“One of the biggest hazards we are facing in the field has nothing to do with electricity at all – it’s actually our customers.

“The type of abuse and threatening behaviour being reported really does pose an additional risk to our crews that we don’t need, whether it’s meter readers, maintenance workers or in an emergency response situation."

Network contact centre staff have also been copping abuse and threats over the phone in a year when they supported Queenslanders through Cyclone Alfred and major flood events.

“Our 24/7 Faults Team is taking calls about life-threatening emergencies at all hours, and they deserve to be treated with the same respect and courtesy they give to customers,” Sarah said.

Aggressive animals are a constant threat to crews on the frontline of customer service. In the last year there have been 148 dog-related incidents and 60 incidents related to wildlife.

“While you may not see your pet as a threat, experience tells us that any dog can pose a risk, regardless of size or temperament."

“We’re asking customers to ensure their pets and livestock are locked up and completely separated from worksites to provide a safe environment for our crews and meter readers.

“If we cannot confirm safe access to your meter or other equipment, we will not risk entering your premises to do any work.

“We are sincerely grateful to the majority of people who are doing the right thing to keep everyone safe, and we hope we can get through to the minority who aren’t,” Sarah said.

For more information on safe entry, visit Safe entry to your property | Ergon Energy.

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