Electrical power line and cable workers

Electrical power line and cable workers are responsible for constructing, maintaining, and repairing overhead and underground electrical power transmission and distribution systems. They play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability of electrical services by working on power lines, cables, and associated equipment. Their primary duties include:

• Installation and Maintenance: Installing and maintaining electrical distribution systems, including overhead and underground power lines, insulators, conductors, transformers, and switches.
• Troubleshooting and Repair: Inspecting, testing, and repairing power lines and auxiliary equipment to identify issues using electrical test equipment.
• Erecting Structures: Erecting and maintaining poles, towers, and guy wires necessary for supporting power lines.
• Splicing and Insulating: Splicing, soldering, and insulating conductors to connect power distribution networks.
• Working at Heights: Climbing poles or using hydraulic buckets to work at heights or in confined spaces like trenches to install or repair cables.

The work environment for electrical power line and cable workers is predominantly outdoors, often exposed to various weather conditions. The job can be physically demanding and carries risks such as electrical shock, falls from heights, or injuries from heavy machinery.

Work-Life Balance

Electrical power line and cable workers typically work full-time hours (35 to 40 hours per week), but they may also be required to work overtime during emergencies or peak demands. Shift work may be necessary depending on the employer's requirements. The nature of the job often necessitates being on-call for urgent repairs after hours or during adverse weather conditions.