Overcoming the Illusion of Safety

Sometimes safety isn't all that it seems There are striking similarities in how we respond to incidents, injuries and fatalities in our industry. Safety stand-downs are held. Utilities and contractors conduct incident investigations that are typically wrapped up with...

Equipotential Grounding Zones Are Essential for Job Site Safety

It is a given that linework, whether transmission or distribution, is hazardous work. Safety is of the utmost priority in an industry where lethal voltages are regularly involved. In 2018, 8.5% of all construction-related fatalities were electrocution-related....

THE UTILITY EXPO 2023: A PREVIEW

This year’s Utility Expo – produced by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers – is expected to be the biggest show yet for utility industry professionals, exceeding the size and scope of the last expo held in 2021. The event, which runs September 26-28 at the...

The Quail Effect: An Indicator of Safety Culture

The Quail Effect: An Indicator of Safety Culture It is not uncommon for a flock of birds, such as quail, to scatter when people get too close to them. This sometimes happens on work sites, too, but instead of birds, it’s workers who scatter when they see safety...

Words of Wisdom from a Longtime Safety Man

Words of Wisdom from a Longtime Safety Man I first got into the electric utility industry in 1965 when I was hired to work as a lineman’s helper. Lineman’s helpers were also called by another name: grunt. At that time, you were not considered a grown adult until you...

Lower Risk Of Wildfires Along T&D Systems Long Term

To achieve the lowest level of risk, some utilities like Sacramento Municipal Utility District are embracing the practice of managing vegetation to tree height.

How Utilities Can Dramatically Reduce Wildfire Risk

Rising temperatures, drought conditions, and dry vegetation are all major contributors to wildfires with possible ignition sources including lightning strikes, unattended campfires, and other man-made causes.

Interview with Ryan Lucas of The Powerline Podcast

It doesn’t hurt to have a little bit of a Gypsy Soul Born and raised in a small town in British Columbia, Ryan never dreamed of becoming a lineman even though his father owned a small power line company. It wasn't until a foreman who worked for his father pulled him...

Interview with David Mendonca of The Show Up Dad Podcast

Being a Great Dad, Husband, and Lineman is all about "Be Where Your Feet Are." If you're a lineman – or in the trades – and a father working hard to provide for your family, David Mendonca wants you to know you're not alone. And if you're struggling to be the best...

THE AMERICAN LINEMAN– a book review

“Linemen are American heroes.” That’s the central thesis of Alan Drew’s ode to the men and women who energized America. The American Lineman looks like a history book meets a science book, but ultimately, it’s the author's love letter to those who keep the lights on....