In the heart of a storm, one figure stands tall amidst the chaos: the lineman. This isn’t a job for the faint-hearted; it’s a profession that calls for courage, strength, and a willingness to stare danger in the face. Let’s peel back the curtain and take a hard look at the pros and cons, the challenges and rewards, of life on the lines.
What is the Danger of Being a Lineman?
Working as a lineman is a high-stakes game. The danger? It’s as palpable as the electrical current coursing through the power lines they work on. Linemen face hazardous weather conditions, high voltage electricity, and heights that would make most folks’ heads spin. Every day they strap up, they’re acutely aware they’re stepping into an arena where one false move can have deadly consequences.
The Hardest Part About Being a Lineman
Arguably, the toughest part about being a lineman isn’t the physical rigor – it’s the mental endurance. Yes, the job requires physical strength, but the mental grit required to maintain intense focus, make split-second decisions, and work for hours on end in punishing conditions is what separates the men from the boys.
What is the Leading Cause of Lineman Deaths?
The grim reality of this line of work is that it can be fatal. The leading cause of lineman deaths? Electrocutions. Handling high-voltage power lines is an inherently dangerous task, and a moment’s lapse can lead to a fatal accident. Add to this the risk of falls from significant heights, and it’s clear that a lineman’s job is one of the most hazardous in the world.
Cons of Being a Lineman
Besides the evident physical danger, being a lineman comes with its set of challenges. The job demands long, irregular hours, often in extreme weather conditions. It’s not just physically grueling; it’s emotionally taxing too. Being away from family during emergencies, holidays, or significant events can take a toll. The pressure of knowing that a simple mistake can cost lives adds a significant psychological burden.
Pros of Being a Lineman
But there’s a flip side to this coin, one that shines with the thrill of overcoming challenges, camaraderie, and a sense of accomplishment. The very elements that make the job tough also make it rewarding. Linemen often speak of the adrenaline rush that comes from tackling tough situations, the satisfaction of restoring power to a community, and the brotherhood that forms among their ranks. Financially, the job is well-compensated, with excellent benefits, acknowledging the high-risk nature of their work.
At the end of the day, the life of a lineman isn’t for everyone. It’s a tough gig that demands strength, skill, and courage. But for those who answer the call, it’s not just a job – it’s a commitment, a lifestyle, and a testament to their character. It’s about being the one who steps up, stands tall, and keeps the world turning, no matter what Mother Nature throws their way.
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.
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!
Critical Thinking:
Linemen must determine the cause of operating errors and use logical reasoning to identify solutions. From equipment selection to installation, using sound judgment is critical. Each day will bring new challenges. When faced with a problem, the ability to think on your feet is necessary. Working with high voltage leaves no room for mistakes. Others will rely on you to evaluate a situation and communicate what needs to be done. Adapting to each new situation and using prior knowledge to develop and implement solutions will be imperative to your on-the-job success.
Physical Vitality:
For a career as a lineman, you must be strong. This is a very demanding line of work mentally and physically. Athleticism is an important asset that can make many aspects of the job easier. You will be required to scale great heights, haul heavy gear, and work grueling hours. If you are not physically at your best, this job will be challenging to maintain.
Thrill Seeker:
Are you naturally inclined to attempt activities others may see as dangerous? Being a lineman is one of the most challenging jobs one can have. It may seem like a no-brainer, but a lineman must be comfortable working high off the ground. Linemen are typically rushing into natural disasters that others are fleeing from. The men and women who choose this job will be taking risks each day. From working in severe weather to working over a hundred feet off the ground, thriving in unique environments will set you up for success.
Hands-on Learner:
While many linemen receive training from a community college or trade school, only so much can be learned in the classroom. Many companies require you to be hired as an apprentice first. You must be able to take what you have read and put it into practice. Many skills can only be perfected through frequent repetitions and time in the field completing work. A large portion of the scenarios you face will not be covered in a book. You will have to take in new information while working and adjust your decision-making for each unique situation.
Being a lineman is a very demanding job, but it is also gratifying. So many times, you will be coming in during a stressful time in another’s life and restoring some sense of normalcy. Without lineman, our society could not function. It takes a solid individual to fulfill this role, and we are so thankful for those that step up to do it.
