Temporary tattoos to promote gas pipeline farm safety

Visitors to next week’s National Ploughing Championships in Ireland will be able to adorn themselves with temporary tattoos as part of a pipeline safety campaign being run by Gas Networks Ireland.

The tattoos will be offered at stand 186 at “the Ploughing” in Screggan, County Offaly, from 16-18 September in support of a “Dial Before You Dig” campaign.

See also: Farm Safety Stars – empower your kids to stay safe on farm

Each tattoo will carry a reminder to check the location of gas pipes before any excavation work begins, promoting the utility’s free Dial Before You Dig (DBYD) service.

“We want this safety message to stick,” said Paul O’Brien, head of health, safety and quality at Gas Networks Ireland.

“Striking a gas pipeline can cause harm, disruption or even worse.

“A quick check with our Dial Before You Dig service by phone, email or online is a vital step that helps keep everyone safe.”

James Doyle © Gas Networks Ireland

Social media personality James Doyle, who has more than 1.4m followers on TikTok, will support the campaign as a safety ambassador and appear at the stand on 16 September.

“It’s a bit of fun with the tattoos, but the message is serious – always check before you dig.

“It can save lives and prevent major damage,” he said.

Renewables

In addition to promoting safety, Gas Networks Ireland will showcase the potential of renewable biomethane gas through its Moving Ireland’s Energy exhibit.

A live 3D printer will build a model anaerobic digestion plant during the event.

“Biomethane presents a real opportunity for Irish farming – new income for farmers, lower emissions for the country and stronger rural circular economies,” said Padraig Fleming, biomethane programme manager.