A Physically Demanding and Rewarding Job
If you prefer physical activity over a desk job, consider a career as a utility line worker. These professionals work to keep the power on for the millions of people who depend on electricity to keep their homes and businesses running. In this article, we’ll explore what line workers do, the requirements for the job, the training involved, and the demand for this profession.
What Does a Line Worker Do?
The primary mission of a line worker is to keep the power on. They install, repair, and replace power system components and utility equipment. This job may require climbing poles, working in trenches, or working remotely from helicopters. Every task requires training and experience to do the job correctly and safely. Workers must learn how to use the specialized tools and equipment necessary to the trade and the correct procedures for performing a job safely and effectively.
Requirements for the Job
A high school diploma or a GED is essential to becoming a line worker. While a college degree is not required, you must possess good math skills, including algebra and geometry. Line work is physically demanding, and you have to be fit – able to climb ladders and poles, work in uncomfortable positions for sometimes hours, and work out in the elements for long periods. You also need specialized PPE (personal protective equipment), weighing up to 40 pounds.
Training to Become a Line Worker
Classroom work is part of the training, as every line worker must understand how the entire power grid works, the equipment they will be working with, and critical safety procedures. Associate degree programs are available, and some apprenticeship programs with utility companies may include classroom instruction. The other aspect of training will require you to go out into the field with crew members to find out what they do and assist them in their work as you learn all the skills you will need in the trade. To work through your apprenticeship program and become a journeyman line worker, you may have to log up to 7,000 hours in the field.
Utility Line Worker Job Demand and Compensation
The need for utility line workers is estimated to grow by at least 8% in 2023 alone. The salaries for line workers are respectable, with apprentices earning wages starting in the $35,000 range and experienced journeymen line workers earning north of $80,000. Some line workers willing to travel to other parts of the country responding to events like hurricanes and storms can earn two to three times their hourly rate when responding to a disaster.
Line Work: A Dangerous but Rewarding Career
Being a line worker is one of the most dangerous occupations. Every year, roughly 2400 out of 100,000 line workers will suffer a serious non-fatal injury, often from an electric shock, a severe burn, or broken bones from falls. 42 out of 100,000 will suffer fatal injuries. Despite the risks involved, for some line workers, this type of work is rewarding, not just financially: this is essential work that makes a real difference in the lives of the people who suffer from disasters like hurricanes and storms.
Stay Safe with Personal Voltage Detectors
Personal voltage detectors are essential safety tools every electrical worker should have in their toolkit. They help detect the presence of voltage in electrical systems, wires, and outlets and prevent electrical shock and electrocution. In this article, we’ll be your personal voltage detector guide and show you how to choose the right one for your needs.
What are Personal Voltage Detectors?
Personal voltage detectors, also known as voltage testers or pens, are handheld devices that detect voltage in electrical systems. They are designed to be simple and can be a lifesaver in an emergency. The user can instantly determine if voltage is present by touching the probe to an electrical conductor. The device will emit an audible alarm or display a red LED light if voltage is present.
How Do Personal Voltage Detectors Work?
Personal voltage detectors use a non-contact testing method to determine the presence of voltage. The device sends a small, harmless current through the electrical conductor and measures the voltage. The device will alarm or display a red LED light if the voltage exceeds a certain threshold.
Types of Personal Voltage Detectors
Several personal voltage detectors are available, including digital multimeters, voltage testers, and voltage pens. Digital multimeters are the most comprehensive but can also be the most complex. Voltage testers and voltage pens are simpler but may have fewer features.
How to Choose the Right Personal Voltage Detector
A simple guide to choosing the right voltage detector:
Accuracy: Choose a device that provides accurate readings to ensure your safety.
Range: Choose a device that can detect voltage in a range that suits your needs.
Ease of Use: Look for a device that is easy to use and requires no special training.
Durability: Look for a well-made device that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Cost: Personal voltage detectors range in price from less than $10 to several hundred dollars. Consider your budget when choosing a device.
In conclusion, a personal voltage detector is crucial for anyone working with electricity. By choosing the right device, you can protect yourself from electrical shock and electrocution. Select a device that is accurate, easy to use, durable, and within your budget. Stay safe and always test for voltage before starting any electrical work.
The Importance of Precautions by using Personal Voltage Detectors.
Voltage detectors are essential tools for electricians, construction workers, and any professional working with electricity. Personal voltage detectors, like the Sixth Sense, maximize safety by alerting them to hazardous electrical currents. This blog will discuss the importance of taking precautions when using personal voltage detectors and how they can help ensure your safety on the job.
Why Precautions are Necessary
Working with electricity can be extremely dangerous, and taking precautions to minimize the risk of injury or death is crucial. Voltage detectors are an excellent tool for detecting electrical currents, but they are only as effective as the precautions taken by the user. To maximize the safety benefits of voltage detectors, following the manufacturer’s instructions, guidelines, and industry standards is crucial.
Check for Damaged or Defective Personal Voltage Detectors
It’s essential to always inspect your device for any visible damage or defects before use. A damaged or defective device may not work correctly, leaving you vulnerable to electrical hazards. Always check the device’s battery level and replace it if necessary.
Avoid Wet Conditions
Water and electricity do not mix, so it’s important to avoid using voltage detectors in wet conditions. If you must use the device in wet conditions, ensure it’s rated for use in wet conditions.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
When working with electricity, it’s essential to be mindful of your surroundings and the electrical sources in the area. Avoid touching live wires or other electrical sources while using the protection device.
In conclusion, taking precautions when using personal voltage detectors can significantly enhance your safety on the job. By following the manufacturer’s instructions, inspecting the device for damage, avoiding wet conditions, and being mindful of your surroundings, you can maximize the safety benefits of this valuable tool.
Anchor Systems for Fall Protection
Knowledge of anchor points is very important for linemen. Workers will connect their lifeline to an anchor, the secure connection point for a fall protection system. Your anchor point must be correctly installed and the right type to keep a lineman from potentially hitting the ground if a fall occurs. Depending on the type of work being done, there are three basic types of anchor systems that are commonly used. First is the designed fixed support. These are load-related anchors specifically designed and permanently installed for fall protection. Next is temporary fixed support. These systems are designed to be connected to a structure. They require installation using specific instructions. Last are existing structural features or improvised anchors. These are not designed to be used as anchor points and may need to be verified before use. It is important these anchor points are closely checked to ensure they will have the adequate capacity to serve as safe anchor points. In 2014 OSHA passed fall protection regulations that require all utility workers to use fall protection when they climb above a height of 4 feet. These regulations also require body harnesses to be worn at all times by linemen, no matter their work surface. When a lineman does not use fall protection, they are putting themselves at risk for injury or death.
Attitude and Safety
A positive attitude affects the overall health and safety of a lineman. The Mayo Clinic lists many benefits to having a positive attitude, such as increased lifespan, greater resistance to illnesses, lower levels of distress and pain, etc. On the other hand, a negative mindset can lead to carelessness, taking shortcuts, or even a distraction from a work task. In addition, having a negative attitude towards safety will lead to unsafe behaviors. Unsafe behaviors lead to incidents on the job. Is your overall perspective as it relates to safety negative? If so, why is that? There are ways to improve your attitude:
1. Acknowledge it. By taking the time to admit you are struggling with a negative attitude, you can take steps to change it.
2. Find the Source. Figure out what is causing your negative feelings and put a name to the source.
3. Take Action. Do you need to have a respectful conversation with a co-worker? Most issues can be solved when all parties can voice their concerns.
4. Stay Aware. Monitor your thoughts and conversations with others. If you feel yourself going in a negative direction, turn things around. It all starts with you.
Pressure on a Lineman to get Work Done Quickly
Lineman experience pressure to get their work done quickly in more extreme ways than others. Many linemen are sent out in dangerous weather or after natural disasters and are expected to get the power back up and running as quickly as possible. These pressures are usually from external sources, such as homeowners and businesses who want to get back to normal as quickly as possible. There can also be internal pressure to get tasks completed quickly. Different things can be done on the job in order to avoid the risk of injury caused by rushing through tasks.
- Plan out your work prior to starting it. Make sure you have all the tools and equipment needed.
- Respectful communication between employees during high-pressure situations will help work to be completed more efficiently and safely. Yelling and being disrespectful often result in unnecessary stress, as well as linemen feeling even more rushed and likely to make an error.
- Take time to evaluate what you are doing and realize when you are rushing yourself.
There are many reasons why an individual may feel like they need to perform work faster. It may come from an external source, such as working during a natural disaster, or it may be created internally by the individual. No matter where the pressure is coming from, too much will result in more exposure to hazards and injuries.
Make toolbox talks a regular occurrence with your team. It will set everyone up for safety and success. In addition, a cohesive unit will be more productive and efficient. These are examples of simple and quick toolbox talks you can use to start your work day positively.
North American Lineman Training Center
There are several schools that are consistently listed as the best lineman schools to attend. One of those schools is North American Lineman Training Center. Located in Mcewen, Tennessee North American Lineman Training Center is unparalleled in its mission to provide the safest, most comprehensive training to the next generation of linemen. The curriculum is taught by highly experienced journeymen linemen, not safety officers, inside electricians nor theoretical engineers. They pride themselves on being a smaller institution where the student is engaged one-on-one, and given a more thorough hands-on experience than their competitors.
Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service
The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service programs include Fire and Emergency Services, Infrastructure and Safety, Law Enforcement and Protective Services and Business and Cyber Solutions. They are often listed as one of the best lineman schools. The Lineworker Academy at Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) is designed to provide students a comprehensive training experience utilizing the best work methods, equipment, tools, and standards. The Academy offers classroom and hands-on field training with a real-world approach delivered by high-quality curriculum, experienced instructors, and specialized equipment and facilities. Upon completion of the Academy, students will be qualified in equipment operation and pole climbing. They will receive their Basic First Aid and CPR Certification, their OSHA 10-Hour ET&D Construction Card, and be eligible to apply for their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Northwest Lineman College
Through training, Northwest Lineman College helps thousands have safe and rewarding careers in electric power, telecommunications, and natural gas. Featured on several best lineman school lists using the Three-Phase Educational Model, Northwest Lineman College (NLC) focuses education around three domains of learning: Knowledge, Skill and Behavior. Each academic course, skill competency, and behavior expectation is shaped by this model. You’ll graduate the Electrical Lineworker Program with these certifications: First Aid Certification, CPR Certification, Climbing Certification, Pole-top Rescue Certification, Metering Certification, Enclosed-space Rescue Certification, Aerial-lift Rescue Certification, Digger Derrick Safety, OSHA 10-hour Construction Safety and Health ET&D card. With the option to add on several other certifications and advanced courses.
Linemen Institute of the North East
The Linemen Institute of the North East is a 500-hour pre-apprentice electrical lineman training program, L.I.N.E. is a one-stop shop for people looking to gain the essential skills needed to start a career as an apprentice lineman. Upon completion of the program participants will receive the following certifications: First Aid & CPR, OSHA 10, pole top & bucket rescue, CDL, and digger truck operations. This small school prides itself on lower student-to-instructor ratios and was founded by a 25-year lineman who worked across the country.
Alaska Electrical Apprenticeship
The Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship Training Trust offers training in several classifications of the electrical industry: Inside Wireman, Residential Wireman, Outside Power Lineman, and Telecommunications Worker (Telephone/Data). The AJEATT is dedicated to producing Alaska’s best-trained and most qualified electrical workers. Outside power lineman school consists of an initial eight-week session with two additional eight-week sessions during on-the-job training. The classes are held eight hours a day, five days a week, at the Electrical Training Centers in Anchorage and Fairbanks. There is a total of 960 hours of class-related training.
The US is home to some of the best lineman schools in the world. This list is a great starting point in your research for the best lineman school for you to attend. There are dozens of options to get your lineman career started. We at ILLUMAGEAR thank you and wish you the best of luck!
