Electricity Today T&D Magazine

Taking care of your grounds and jumpers

A lineman’s ground and jumper cables look and feel like they’re built to last forever, but looks can be deceiving. They get tossed in the truck, dropped in the mud, left hanging in the rain, and generally overlooked. With everyday use, we start to take them for granted. And slowly the wear and tear adds up, compromising their mechanical and electrical reliability. That’s why the care, maintenance, and regular testing of your grounds and jumpers are so important.

Take your personal protective grounding personally

Grounds
Grounds are essential cables that contribute to your...

Lineworkers face numerous risks daily, from respiratory ailments to electrical hazards. These dangers can result in severe injuries, low blood pressure, bleeding, and vomiting. However, by adhering to established safety protocols, contractors and employers can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Below are 12 practical tips to protect lineworkers from common safety hazards.

1. Identifying Job Hazards
The first step to mitigating risks is recognizing them. Conduct regular inspections of the worksite to identify potential hazards. Evaluate equipment and work conditions to detect safety threats that may be difficult to eliminate. Interview workers and managers to understand their concerns and...