Linesman Career Description
Electrical power is linked to individual consumers by means of underground cables or overhead power lines supported either by steel towers or wooden poles. It is the task of the linesmen to construct and maintain these cables, power lines and their supports.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Learner linesmen receive on-the-job training under the supervision of qualified linesmen. They assist during the erection of overhead power lines and in the laying of underground cables. As they become more experienced, they will be appointed over a team of line workers and then be responsible for the marking out of pole and construction foundations, the wiring of meter boards and the laying of service cables.
The erection of overhead power lines involves the bolting of cross-arms to transmission poles and the bolting of insulators on the cross-arms. The wires and cables are raised and attached to the insulators. Other equipment such as transformers and switches are also attached to the poles.
When wires, cables or poles break, an emergency call awaits the line crew and the damage has to be repaired or equipment replaced. All routine maintenance and replacements are performed by linesmen and their crew. Linesmen sometimes have to deal with land-owners when construction work has to be done on private property.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Prospective linesmen should be strong and in good physical condition for the strenuous work of climbing poles and lifting lines and equipment. Colour-blindness and a fear of heights are unacceptable in this profession. A technical orientation is important. Applicants must be at least 17 years old and be prepared to travel countrywide.
Where can I work?
Electricity power line construction companies
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
No
|
