A few years ago I came upon a crew using 6-inch chocks to hold back a 38-ton crane truck. I told the crew I was happy that they were making an effort at compliance, but I had to ask them, “Why do we place chocks under a truck’s wheels? Is it to comply with our safety...
Aerial line work using helicopters is a proven method utilized in our industry to perform certain tasks safely and efficiently. Helicopters have supported the utility industry since 1947. Operators conducting aerial work in support of the utility industry encounter...
Insulating aerial devices and digger derricks are used to provide a level of protection to their operators and ground personnel who work around energized power lines. Following established safe work procedures is critical, as is testing and maintaining the equipment...
Aerial observation tower tags, crossing signs and transmission tower safety signage are crucial for rapid, safe repair during outages and ongoing maintenance. When a widespread power outage occurs and high-voltage transmission lines require immediate repairs, the...
Storms are just one factor that can cause downed power lines. But what do you do once you find one? Firstly, you should always assume it’s live. Just because you don’t see sparks, or hear any noise coming from it, doesn’t mean it’s not active. National Grid has a few...
In the utility industry, the reliance on flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) garments has been a longstanding practice to safeguard workers against arc flashes and flash fires. Crafted from specially engineered, self-extinguishing fabrics and adhering to stringent...
