IFA & Gas Networks Ireland Issue Reminder to Farmers to Check Before You Dig

The IFA and Gas Networks Ireland are reminding farmers, landowners, contractors and forestry operators to always check before they dig. If you’re planning drain or ditch clearing, drainage works, fencing installations, particularly driving posts, or any other groundworks, it is important to check for underground gas pipelines before work begins.

IFA President Francie Gorman said through its free Dial Before You Dig service, Gas Networks Ireland provides maps of the gas network along with practical advice and guidance to help people plan works safely and avoid disruption.

“It’s important to follow the steps and avoid any problems that could arise if a check hasn’t taken place. For everybody’s sake, it’s worth taking the time that is needed.”

Gas Networks Ireland Head of Health, Safety & Quality, Paul O’Brien said: “Damaging natural gas pipelines can cause major disruption, serious injury or even worse. Gas Networks Ireland’s Dial Before You Dig service provides information, advice and maps on the gas pipeline network.  All responsible contractors and farmers will want to ensure that they are operating safely and obtaining maps of underground services is a critical step when planning any excavation”.

A quick check upfront can make all the difference. The service is quick and easy to use, provides free support and guidance, and helps protect people, farmland, neighbouring communities, and essential energy infrastructure. Farmers and landowners are encouraged to make safety their priority and always check before they dig. For free maps, advice and support, visit www.gasnetworks.ie/gas-safety/dial-before-you-dig or call 1800 42 77 47 or email [email protected].

Stay safe. Protect yourself, your land, and your community.

Farmers, landowners, and contractors are encouraged to follow Gas Networks Ireland’s eight essential pipeline safety steps:

1. Normal agricultural work including ploughing, tilling, subsoiling to a depth of 300mm does not require a permit.
2. Always contact Gas Networks Ireland before repairing or installing a new drainage system, clearing out existing ditches or open drains or undertaking any other kind of excavation work.
3. Call Gas Networks Ireland before installing gate posts and/or straining posts within the wayleave.
4. Ground cover should not be reduced or increased, or materials stored on the gas pipeline wayleave.
5. Pipelines are identified with marker posts at roads and property boundaries. Remember, gas marker posts can be accidentally damaged or moved, and pipeline routes may change direction within any particular field. Do not assume that the pipeline runs in a straight line between posts.
6. Gas Networks Ireland should be contacted prior to planting trees in close proximity to the wayleave.
7. Please contact Gas Networks Ireland before undertaking forestry plantation and subsequent operations in or near the wayleave, such as drainage, construction of haul roads, harvesting, or cultivating.
8. If necessary or requested, a Gas Networks Ireland representative will visit your property/site to locate and mark out the pipeline and will give advice on what type of work can be carried out on the pipeline wayleave. This is a FREE service.

Dial Before You Dig: For free maps, advice and support, visit www.gasnetworks.ie/gas-safety/dial-before-you-dig or call 1800 42 77 47.