TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION
SIGNS FROM ABOVE W
How durable signage makes for safe transmission towers
hen a widespread power outage occurs and high- voltage transmission lines require immediate
repairs, the electric utility often sends a skilled technician to the location by helicopter to speed the repair process. Helicopters, along with drones, are also utilised for monitoring, inspecting, and maintaining transmission towers and power lines. Linemen often work on transmission lines that are not de-energised, allowing for an uninterrupted power supply.
SAFETY FIRST Working near high voltage lines poses significant electrical hazards. The pilots and crew must adhere to strict safety protocols to avoid accidental contact with live wires. According to manufacturer of
industrial identification for 76 years Tech Products, Inc., clear signage is vital to a successful operation. “When a technician is suspended
hundreds of feet above ground, or a drone must fly close to the line, having easily readable, visible signage ensures the crew is at the correct location and understands the potential dangers and hazards in the area,” says Tech Products general manager Daniel O’Connor.
SIGNAGE AT TRANSMISSION TOWERS Transmission towers require aerial observation tower/pole identification tags, crossing signs, warning signs, as well as various other crucial tags and markers. Towers and other restricted areas also need to display warnings of the deadly electrocution and fall hazards to prevent unauthorised access or attempts to climb the structure from the ground.
READY RAIN OR SHINE Because of the importance of identifying the correct tower, aerial surveillance markers must be readily visible for many years despite continual exposure to sun, rain,
14
www.engineerlive.com High impact polyolefin plastic is a durable material for signage
snow, sleet, wind, and even corrosive elements like acid rain. Unfortunately, traditional painted and laminated identification products frequently fade or delaminate when continually exposed to outdoor weather or punishing conditions. The alternative is more durable
signage made of high impact polyolefin plastic like the Everlast brand from Tech Products. Everlast signs and tags display text or pictograms that are permanently embedded through the entire thickness of the substrate. UV stabilisers and antioxidants are added to provide complete protection and weather resistance in all climates. For optimal visibility at a distance,
polyolefin plastic aerial observation tags come in sizes ranging from six inches to 12 inches, the largest in the industry. “We always make sure our signs
are OSHA/ANSI compliant,” says O’Connor. “However, it is not just what
the sign says, but also its colours. A safety red must stay red for the life of the sign, or it may no longer be considered compliant with OSHA regulations, even if it has been twenty- five years,” says O’Connor. With the stakes of quickly restoring
power to urban areas so high today, utilities need to effectively utilise industry best practice signage, tags, and markers to help their technicians quickly, safely identify and resolve any issues in transmission towers and poles. Those that do so will benefit greatly
over the long term from increased uptime and safety while substantially reducing labour, maintenance, and potential liability.
Author: Del Williams, a technical writer based in Torrance, California.
For more information visit:
www.techproducts.com
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