Tools of the Trade Our linemen are suited up for safety everyday
Linemen answer when called–and they do so to ensure that you receive safe, reliable electric service, even during bad weather. It is a job that requires them to perform detailed tasks near deadly high voltage, o en while 40 feet in the air.
How do they stay safe when working in these condi ons? It isn’t by accident. Northeast Oklahoma Electric Coopera ve linemen employ personal protec ve equipment (PPE) at all mes on the job to keep them safe.
In honor of Na onal Electric Safety month, Foreman Donald Butcher–a 36-year veteran of the co-op–spent some me to explain the important equipment he uses every day.
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Hard hat - provides protec on from falling objects and provides insula on from electrical hazards.
Safety glasses - block sun’s glare and protect the eyes from loose debris.
Rubber sleeves - seamless, vulcanized rubber that protect the lineman’s arms from accidental contact with an energized line.
Fire resistant clothing - fi re resistant long-sleeved shirts and jeans protect lineman from burn due to an unexpected arc or fl ash fi re.
Insulated rubber gloves and rubber glove protectors - rubber gloves are dielectric tested and provide protec on against electric shock and burn. They are black on the outside and red or yellow on the inside. The color diff erence aids linemen in inspec ng their equipment. Gloves must be inspected prior to every use to ensure their integrity. A ny pinhole can mean the diff erence between staying safe or being burned. The glove protectors fi t snuggly over the rubber gloves and reduce the chance of damage or puncture.
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Climbing and equipment belt - this belt has loops, clips and rings designed to carry the lineman’s tools, allowing him to climb safely.
Safety strap - this heavy, thick strap a aches to the equipment belt. It goes around the pole, allowing the lineman to climb, stay securely in place while working, and descend safely.
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Climbers and gaff s - climbers are straps and leg shanks that are strapped on over the boots and jeans. They hold the gaff s, which are sharp steel points that dig into the pole for climbing, stay securely in place while working, and descending.
Work boots - steel or ceramic toes and a sha tall enough to protect the lineman’s legs from gaff s while climbing. Addi onal arch support provides a secure grip with the climbers.
Kelly Rush, Communica ons Specialist
Butch
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