Look Up Look Out

Temporary shrouding — you're not on your own

Please read this carefully. If overhead cables near a job feel unsafe, the safest decision is not to work until the situation is made safe. You can call 105 (free) to reach your local network operator for advice; in some cases they can arrange protective covering (shrouding). This page also helps you draft a clear request.

If this looks dangerous

If cables are:

  • very low
  • damaged
  • sparking
  • or feel unsafe

Stop immediately

Do not continue.

Call National Grid: 0800 096 3080

Look Up Look Out: overhead power lines safety sign, Remember Jason

Electricity can arc — you don't need to touch the wires to be seriously injured or worse. Carbon fibre poles conduct; never treat partial insulation as permission to work unsafely.

Network operators can assess risk and arrange shrouding where appropriate — ask via 105 or their published process

This tool helps you build a proper draft to the right operator, with your photo and location, in minutes.

What this does for you

You’ll need a clear photo of the pole and cables, and a few minutes to confirm location and review the draft message.

  • Builds a ready-to-send request to the right network operator
  • Uses your photo + location to get it right first time
  • Helps you avoid chasing or filling out confusing forms
  • Gives you something you can show customers for compliance

Takes less than 60 seconds

Follow these four steps: capture the site, confirm where you are, check the wording we prepare, then submit via the operator’s channel.

  1. Take a photo

    Photograph the pole and cables clearly so we can see the setup. This image stays on this journey until you hand off — it is not transferred automatically to your network operator. Depending on the organisation, you may need to upload a photo again on their website.

  2. Confirm location

    Save GPS from your phone for operator lookup (required for a normal request). Add site notes. Three words for your message only appear when this service can suggest them from your position — otherwise your draft uses GPS coordinates and notes; you do not need to type three words.

    Phone location (required for normal requests)

    The button saves GPS for who covers this area. Three words are currently disabled for this environment; we use GPS plus your notes.

    Phone position (for who covers this area)

    For a standard request, tap Use my phone’s location and allow access. Three words may appear from the service after that; if not, leave the field empty.

    How does this look on site?

    If it feels dangerous, stop and use emergency numbers—do not carry on with a normal shrouding request here.

  3. Check the request

    We generate the message for you — edit anything before you send.

  4. Send it

    We guide you to the right place to submit on the operator’s site.

    Work through Check the request above: create your draft, detect your operator, then use the handoff button under your message.