Examples

• Level 2 read short notes on drawings and forms in order to understand how materials must be assembled or how to use materials appropriately. The notes contain specific technical information that relates to construction standards or specifications.
• Level 2 read e-mails and correspondence from manufacturers or from electrical grid personnel in order to stay informed about issues related to the profession. For example, an engineer in head office may send out a warning about defective materials.
• Level 3 read articles and other information provided during technical training courses such as confined space or fall arrest training in order to learn the material, complete assignments and pass course exams.
• Level 3 consult textbooks in order to determine the proper steps to follow when faced with an unusual or infrequent task. For example, they may check on the procedure to install a voltage regulator and put it into service.
• Level 3 consult the Ministry of Transportation summaries of the Highway Traffic Act in order to prepare to work on any public roads. For example, they determine where to put the yield to oncoming traffic sign for a worksite less than 50m in length when the traffic volume is low or minimal.
• Level 4 read a wide range of code books, standards of practice, Standard Work Methods, Safe Limits of Approach, and regulations in order to ensure that the work is completed in compliance with the industry standards. Powerline Technicians regularly consult standards and regulations involving safe work practices overhead distribution standards, high voltage and low voltage applications, stringing procedures, line clearing and underground cable installations. Powerline Technicians must be able to apply the technical information provided to resolve specific situations.

Examples

• Level 1 read a list of order numbers and job descriptions to identify the particular work order to be used.
• Level 1 keep a daily logbook or timesheet in order to inform human resources of the number of hours worked to complete an assignment.
• Level 1 search catalogues of utility supplies to identify the catalogue number of specific parts to complete an order. For example, consult the Standard Catalogue Number (SCN) to identify information related to a special voltage meter.
• Level 1 use road maps and pole number to identify the route to follow to get to a work location.
• Level 2 complete forms to track the disposal of hazardous materials such as polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) in order to ensure compliance to regulations. For example, they document that the proper techniques for bagging transformers were followed.
• Level 2 scan work orders for information about current projects. Powerline Technicians look for specific details such as job location, job description, timelines, scheduling information, contractor requirements, special notes and project hazards, the project contacts as well as the Ministry of Labour related activities.
• Level 2 use standard construction drawings to determine the physical layout of the environment and objects within that environment. For example, they use the codes and symbols on drawings and civil prints in order to locate underground gas, telephone and cable lines.
• Level 3 cross check information on a number of standard reporting forms, job planning aids and permits. For example, they may need to check for several permits before work beside a major highway can begin.
• Level 3 scan schematic drawings in order to identify the electrical parts and devices required to assemble of a piece of equipment.
• Level 3 use information from selected tables and charts in order to perform required calculations. For example, calculate the voltage drop using a chart presenting the recommended voltage variation limits for circuits up to 1000 volts at service entrances (CSA Standard CAN3-C235-83). In another situation, determine the appropriate tension on an overhead conductor using a 'sag chart' that lists the correct amount of sag for different conductor weights, pole spacing and temperatures.
• Level 3 look at electrical schematic drawings to see how devices are connected and how the circuit operates in order to 'isolate' the circuit so that work can be carried out safely.
• Level 3 scan schematic drawings in order to identify the electrical parts and devices required to assemble of a piece of equipment.

Examples

• Level 1 keep a daily logbook containing reminders and notes about job progress, deliveries, weather conditions and unusual occurrences.
• Level 2 describe procedures and write comments on the Traffic Control Plan to document the measures that were taken to eliminate potential hazards and therefore enhance the safety of the general public as well as comply with ministry of transportation control requirements.
• Level 2 document safety hazards and safety precautions on the work order to assist in the planning of future construction and maintenance operations.

Examples

• Level 1 record all materials used during a project so that the supervisor can monitor the budget.
• Level 1 calculate the amount of wire required to complete a field activity. For example, multiply the amount of wire for each pole by the number of poles.
• Level 2 determine the time required for job tasks in the field, establish a schedule and adjust work to accommodate unforeseen circumstances.
• Level 2 convert measurements from Imperial to System International (SI) units. For example, convert feet to metres when using older construction plans.
• Level 2 calculate the length of the pole needed for a specific location. The amount buried in the ground is found in the appropriate standard or code book and is determined by the function of the pole and the type of ground it is placed in. The finished height of the pole above ground is added to this to arrive at total length.
• Level 2 calculate the average kilowatt demand for a building or residence from the billing history.
• Level 2 estimate the time required to complete a work order, considering such factors as terrain, weather and safety hazards.
• Level 2 estimate how far a pole will move when loaded with tensioned conductors using past experience.
• Level 2 estimate the type and amount of materials that need to be ordered to complete a job.
• Level 3 use values from a data table, to de-rate the capacity rigging slings in two and three bridle arrangements according to the sling angle.
• Level 3 calculate the weight of the load and then use capacity and range charts to properly position the truck and make the lift safely when using a truck-mounted crane or boom.
• Level 3 calculate the tension and angle at which guys for an electrical line must be rigged using formulae and related charts.

Examples

• Level 2 communicate with a central dispatcher or the control centre to exchange information about the work in progress and to obtain new assignments.
• Level 2 communicate with an administrative support officer to delegate specific tasks to ensure that the project deadlines will be met. For example, they may request that specific materials be ordered and delivered to the site as soon as possible or ask that they contact a client to obtain permission to cut a tree or that they send additional help or equipment on the site.
• Level 2 exchange timely information regarding a work order with the supervisor and other crew members several times a day. These discussions focus on current activities, tasks that need to be completed, and unforeseen circumstances or problems. It is important that any concerns be shared and discussed with the group. Failure to do so could result in significant harm to individuals. For example, when weather conditions appear threatening, the Powerline Technician will need to consult with contractors, crew and dispatch in order to decide if the job should proceed.
• Level 2 interact with property owners and members of the general public. For example, may negotiate vehicle access terms with a property owner in order to carry out repairs, ask a member of the public to move a vehicle to allow access to a utility box, or convince a member of the public to clear the area when a power line is down.
• Level 2 explain to various contractors such as a backhoe operator, tree trimmer or flag person, the work they are expected to complete and the conditions under which the work must be conducted. For example, contact a backhoe operator to request that a hole be dug in order to install a pole, indicating the day, the time, and the specific location as well as the environmental factors that must be considered.
• Level 3 explain and demonstrate safe working techniques to new employees such as climbing poles to ensure that proper safety procedures are being followed.
• Level 4 analyze critical situations that present safety concerns for the general public and describe them to the system Control or Operations Centre. For example, in a high risk situation such as a fire in a pole following a multiple vehicle collision on a busy highway, explain the environmental factors that can influence the switching and tagging of the electrical line.
• Level 4 maintain constant communication with all members of the team during a complicated stringing operation in which the coordination of the driver of the vehicle, the individual in the bucket and the person stringing is critical in order to prevent the injury and death of individuals involved. For example, if the wire gets caught and the service vehicle does not immediately stop, the pole could break and could result in power outage. In other cases, the wire could break and fall to the ground where contact with the live conductor could critically injure individuals in the area.

Examples

• Level 2 discover that the insulator to be replaced is made of porcelain and presents safety hazards because it can break easily. To limit the danger, they will take precautionary measures during the installation.
• Level 2 encounter unforeseen obstructions to the run of the power line being constructed. For example a tree may intrude into the line's path. They will contact the client to discuss the pruning or removal of the tree. In other cases, the construction plan has to be modified and poles placed in other positions.
• Level 2 encounter a mechanical failure which compromises the ability to meet deadlines. For example, an equipment part being used is defective or worn, such as broken teeth on a digger derrick. They request that parts be brought to the site, and proceed to remove and install the parts. In other cases, where the mechanical failure is more complex, they may call the central dispatcher and request that repairs be carried out on site by a certified technician.
• Level 2 hit solid rock when drilling holes for poles. They drill the next hole in order to keep the work progressing and arrange to have a backhoe operator complete the more difficult hole in the rock.
• Level 3 may be informed that a transformer in a commercial district has burst into flame during an electrical storm. They need to identify the people who need to be consulted to determine the best courses of action. For example, they exchange information with fire fighters, city representatives, major tenants of affected buildings, and central dispatch. On-site Powerline Technicians may have to determine how power can be maintained in order to minimize traffic hazards that might occur if traffic lights are shut off.
• Level 3 face an unexpected electric storm that breaks out while they are replacing a transformer. They must find the best solution to ensure the safety of the workers as well as restoring the power to the client quickly. This might require that the work be stopped temporarily and contractors asked to stay on site until the weather improves.
• Level 3 are informed that the equipment to be used by a contractor to replace a transformer in a major downtown high rise building is too heavy and cannot be supported by the structural elements of the building. They must immediately meet with the engineer responsible for the building, the building owner and the contractor to determine the best course of action. Several problem solutions may be advanced and evaluated using technical and practical criteria.

Examples

• Level 1 decide what alternate work activities will be completed if the weather conditions prevent outside work. For example, if the weather is too cold, they may speak to a supervisor and choose other tasks, such as cleaning tools or organizing tools and supplies in their vehicles.
• Level 2 decide which contractor will be hired to deliver services required in the field. For example, contract a back-hoe operator to complete a back fill.
• Level 2 decide the type of personal protective equipment to wear to complete specific activities.
• Level 2 decide if the materials are suitable to be installed. For example, they will not use any article that is even slightly damaged because it could result in a loss of power.
• Level 2 decide the proper procedures that will be followed and the materials that need to be purchased to replace poles that are rotten.
• Level 2 when working beside a highway, decide how to control hazards created by poor visibility, the presence of pedestrians, high traffic volume, and the presence of other crews. They are guided in this overview by job planning aids and safety checklists.
• Level 2 decide if the materials are suitable to be installed. For example, they will not use any article that is even slightly damaged because it could result in a loss of power.
• Level 3 decide if, and under what conditions, equipment will be left on-site at the end of the day in order to complete the work the next day. For example, they decide whether the equipment should be energized, de-energized, or isolated).
• Level 3 decide which safety procedures will be implemented when work is conducted in proximity of live wires. For example, to ensure the safety of self, crew and members and the public, the Powerline Technician determines if the power should be held off, if the vehicle should be grounded, or what type of cover-up is required (e.g., hoses or hooks).

Examples

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Examples

• remember in which specific guide, book or manual relevant information can be found.
• remember the sequence of specific safety procedures in order to control the line condition in a safe and effective manner.
• remember which traffic signs need to be used in order to protect self and the public when working on public roads.
• remember the traffic control requirements stipulated in the ministry of transportation manual that are required for the specific site conditions.

Examples

• Level 2 exchange information with peers to determine the best way to complete an assignment taking into consideration the environmental factors.
• Level 2 use catalogues to find the required materials to complete a work order.
• Level 2 use manuals, codes and guides to determine the safest and most efficient manner to deal with a hazardous condition.
• Level 2 use catalogues to find the required materials to complete a work order.
• Level 2 use manuals, codes and guides to determine the safest and most efficient manner to deal with a hazardous condition.

Examples

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• Level 2 use communications software. For example, they may use e-mail to communicate with their supervisors.
• Level 2 use communications software. For example, access the Internet using a laptop computer in order to review electrical schematics, construction drawings and entry.
• Level 2 use other computer applications. For example, use geographical information system (GIS) software to locate or place powerline elements.

Physical Aspects

Body Position Powerline Technicians work in a variety of position (standing, bending, crouching, stooping) depending on the assignment. Powerline Technicians work at a variety of heights, using climbing gear or hydraulic buckets. They also work in confined areas, such as manholes. Limb Co-ordination The work of Powerline Technicians requires the coordination of the arms and legs especially when climbing poles using climbing gear. Strength The Powerline Technicians may be required to lift materials of up to 75 lbs. Sensory The Powerline Technicians need good vision and hearing to do the work safely.

Attitudes

The Powerline Technicians interviewed emphasized the importance of continuous learning as one way to help promote safety. They are aware that their work presents high risks for harm to self and others, and therefore recognize the importance of being continuously alert to the environmental factors that are potential hazards and to continuously take precautionary measures to control those hazards. Given the high safety risks, the Powerline Technicians must be able to tolerate a high degree of stress. Powerline Technicians work must enjoy working outdoors in a wide range of weather conditions. They must also feel comfortable working at heights such as working aloft on poles and towers and working in confined spaces such as trenches and tunnels. Powerline Technicians must also enjoy driving and operating a wide range of vehicles, such as a forklift, a hydraulic bucket, a Radial Boom Derek or a half-ton truck.

Future Trends Affecting Essential Skills

Powerline Technicians are likely to experience the introduction of computer technology in their working environment. In the near future, computers will likely be mounted in their various vehicles so that they can have access to various sources of information while in the field. On-line record keeping will allow immediate documentation of work that has been completed. Recent advances in geographic information systems (GIS) are also having an effect on the way that Technicians identify structures and locations. The future will likely continue to see increasing efforts and energy in communicating, training and designing equipment that will enhance the safety of workers and the public.