Informations

As of January 2010, meter readers, inspectors and technicians are classified as public officials

2010.01.27



As a result of an amendment to the Penal Code, the personnel who make technical inspections, carry out checks, disconnect service, and read meters at the consumption sites specified in the Natural Gas Act and the Electricity Act have been classified as public officials as of January 1, 2010 in connection with the performance of their duties.

According to the explanatory notes for the amendment, these personnel (our meter readers, inspectors and technicians) are acting in the public interest, and they are entitled, when performing their duties, to look for and put an end to unlawful acts that jeopardize, disturb or obstruct the continuous and safe supply of electricity, the safety of gas supply or the consumption of another system user.

The Penal Code is providing greater protection for public officials in instances when they are assaulted or prevented by violence or threats from doing their jobs.
Since the Penal Code amendment specifies crimes perpetrated against our meter readers, inspectors and technicians as a first-degree offence, perpetrators will be subject to particularly serious criminal penalties.