May 10th 2024.
Jason Knight, a 34-year-old window cleaner from Wiltshire, recently experienced a terrifying and life-changing event while on the job. As he was cleaning windows at a customer's conservatory, a 33,000-volt electric shock suddenly surged through his body, catapulting him seven feet across the lawn and blasting him out of his shoes.
The powerful shock narrowly missed his heart, but it caused severe damage to his left arm and feet. Jason was immediately airlifted to the hospital, where he underwent 17 operations including the amputation of his forearm and five toes that were badly burnt. He is currently still recovering in the hospital and doctors have informed him that he may never walk again.
Reflecting on the moments after the incident, Jason recalls being in shock and disbelief as he looked down at his feet and realized the extent of his injuries. With great difficulty, he managed to crawl to the nearest wall and prop himself up against it. All he could think about was the possibility of losing his life, unable to even tap on the window for help.
On the day of the incident, Jason was using a water-fed pole to clean the conservatory, unaware that there were dangerous 33,000-volt electricity lines running through the property. There were no clear warning signs around the property, and he had just finished cleaning the last pane when the carbon fiber pole came too close to the power lines, causing the electric shock.
Jason's father, John Knight, was devastated when he received the news and immediately rushed to the scene. He remembers seeing the air ambulance and realizing the severity of the situation. John was not allowed to enter the garden, but he managed to catch a glimpse of his son's blackened hand and face, and his burnt feet.
The day after the incident, John contacted the company responsible for the power lines, Scottish and Southern Electricity (SSEN). A preliminary report from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that the power lines were above the minimum safe height and distance from the conservatory, and that there was no requirement for them to be insulated. However, John questions the report's findings, as his neighbors have confirmed that they have never seen an inspector or been asked for permission to access the nearest electricity pole in their fenced garden.
According to HSE guidelines, even voltages lower than 230 volts can be lethal, and going near a live overhead line can result in a flashover. Flashovers occur when electricity jumps from the line to a nearby object that is not insulated or has been compromised. John stood in the footprints left by Jason and looked up at the cable directly above his head, questioning how such a dangerous situation could be overlooked.
Due to the severity of his injuries, Jason had to close down his small cleaning business that he had worked hard to build up over the past two years. However, he remains positive and is focusing on his recovery. Jason's sister, Leanna Haskell, launched a fundraiser to help cover the costs of modifications needed for his home, physiotherapy, and prosthetics. The response has been overwhelming, with donations from both friends and strangers.
SSEN has expressed their sadness and offered their support to Jason and his family during this difficult time. They state that they take their responsibility for public safety seriously and have been cooperating with the HSE's investigation. However, as it is still an ongoing investigation, they are unable to provide further comments.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of electricity and the importance of proper safety measures. In 2021, a man survived a 14,000-volt electric shock that melted off 25% of his skin. It is crucial for companies to regularly inspect their assets and ensure that warning signs are in place to protect the public. As for Jason, he continues to fight and remains grateful for the support and kindness shown by others during this difficult time.
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