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Protecting against stray voltage

One of Michigan’s largest electricity providers says livestock owners with older electrical systems should check for stray voltage.

Jim Baisden with Consumers Energy says stray voltage, or Neutral to Earth Voltage, is a measureable level of voltage between a metal object connected to electrical systems and the adjacent floor or earth.

“It is often called stray voltage when measured between two points that can be simultaneously contacted by livestock.”

He recommends farmers properly maintain wiring systems and have an inspection of equipment and wiring on a regular basis.

He tells Brownfield, stray voltage could be caused by a condition within the wiring on a farm, the wiring at a neighbor’s property or the power lines supplying a farm.  “This stray voltage can range from a slight tingling or burning sensation at a cut to an uncomfortable jolt for animals.”  That tingle can be most noticeable on dairy farms as it can felt by livestock at watering stations or in the milking parlor.

Baisden says, if a person can feel an uncomfortable jolt, there may be a serious problem with the wiring system or equipment.

AUDIO: Interview with Consumers Energy (2:50 mp3):