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Overhead power line construction
Whats the most challenging part of the job on a daily basis?
Mental chalenges or physical?
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3 answers
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Gloria’s Answer
Hi Dennis,
I have created training for technicians who work on or around power lines. Safety is definitely going to be the biggest challenge in any role where power is at play. There are a couple of reasons for that.
You heard Jordan mention adrenaline and being hyper focused during your workday. It is hard to believe but overtime, you became used to the danger that is around you. In that way, you can take it for granted. You see it every day when driving on the roads. There are a lot of accidents every day, especially from people who have driven for years. They are taking the risks for granted. If it didn't happen to me yesterday, it won't happen to me today. In dealing with power, making sure that your equipment is properly maintained, stored, and checked for problems every day is critical to staying safe. And yet, some individuals take cursory glances at their equipment if they "look" good without really running through the safety protocols to make sure.
In addition, power line work means that you are out in the world - with other people and the environment - both of which are often out of your control. Being aware of your surroundings is as critical as making sure that you and your equipment are safe. Some people suffer on the job from things from heat stroke to being struck by a vehicle, even those being driven by another co-worker.
Being safe does not mean that you have to be stressed or worried. It needs to be a priority for you in the work day. Avoid distractions that can reduce your safety. That means not listening to music or taking calls while you are working. Check messages only when you are safely away from the work area. Communicate with others about safety conditions throughout the day. Call out when you see something unsafe is happening.
Gloria
I have created training for technicians who work on or around power lines. Safety is definitely going to be the biggest challenge in any role where power is at play. There are a couple of reasons for that.
You heard Jordan mention adrenaline and being hyper focused during your workday. It is hard to believe but overtime, you became used to the danger that is around you. In that way, you can take it for granted. You see it every day when driving on the roads. There are a lot of accidents every day, especially from people who have driven for years. They are taking the risks for granted. If it didn't happen to me yesterday, it won't happen to me today. In dealing with power, making sure that your equipment is properly maintained, stored, and checked for problems every day is critical to staying safe. And yet, some individuals take cursory glances at their equipment if they "look" good without really running through the safety protocols to make sure.
In addition, power line work means that you are out in the world - with other people and the environment - both of which are often out of your control. Being aware of your surroundings is as critical as making sure that you and your equipment are safe. Some people suffer on the job from things from heat stroke to being struck by a vehicle, even those being driven by another co-worker.
Being safe does not mean that you have to be stressed or worried. It needs to be a priority for you in the work day. Avoid distractions that can reduce your safety. That means not listening to music or taking calls while you are working. Check messages only when you are safely away from the work area. Communicate with others about safety conditions throughout the day. Call out when you see something unsafe is happening.
Gloria
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Dennis
Updated
Jerred’s Answer
I work in substations and have never been a distribution or transmission lineman. Based on conversations that I have had with them, the hardest things they say they deal with are the time spent away from home and their bodies breaking down later in life.
My suggestion would be to contact the IBEW local that supports line work in your area and ask them the questions you have. If you are in CA, you can talk to IBEW 47 or 1245. Hope this helps.
My suggestion would be to contact the IBEW local that supports line work in your area and ask them the questions you have. If you are in CA, you can talk to IBEW 47 or 1245. Hope this helps.
Updated
Jordan’s Answer
The most challenging part of the job is to remain safe. Only a small accident can be fatal and it only take a single accident for you to be injured.
Aside, I find the mental stress is immense especially because this is a very hazardous job.
Aside, I find the mental stress is immense especially because this is a very hazardous job.
Hey thanks man Can i ask specificaly what aspect adds to the stress the most is it work volume the hazards as u mentioned, but if u can just think a bit about what its like?
Dennis
I feel like having adrenaline pumping into my body for the entire 8 hour shift is extremely exhausting. Furthermore, the exhaustion will increase the likelihood for an accident to occur.
We are all humans and we make mistake. I feel its very scary and intimidating knowing that any mistake I make can have very serious consequences.
I like having room to make mistake and learning from it.
Jordan Cheung
Hey thanks Jordan i really appreciate this info man, Definitely some things to consider
Dennis