(Kaieteur News) – The Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) is reminding contractors to access worksites properly following an incident on Friday in which a crane operator dangerously extended a boom over a 69kV transmission line at Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara.

The operator’s actions created what GPL described in a statement as “an extremely hazardous situation.” According to the company, the crane operator left the location before investigators from GPL and ranks of the Guyana Police Force arrived. Investigations are ongoing.

“GPL reminds contractors, equipment operators, and members of the public that operating heavy equipment over or in close proximity to high-voltage transmission lines is extremely dangerous and constitutes a serious breach of safe work practices. Such reckless actions can result in electrocution, loss of life, extensive damage to equipment and the electricity network, and widespread power outages affecting thousands of customers,” the company said.