Hello everyone,
As a “Guide” here, I’m always looking for ways to support our incredible community of power linemen. One of the most valuable things we can do for each other is share the resources that help us excel, stay safe, and advance in our demanding profession.
The work of a power lineman is unlike any other – it requires constant learning, precision, and access to the best information available. To that end, I wanted to open a discussion dedicated to essential resources for linemen. Think of this as a collective knowledge base we can all contribute to and benefit from.
What kind of resources are we talking about?
This covers a wide spectrum! Anything that you rely on to do your job effectively, safely, or to grow your career. This might include:
- Training & Education: Apprenticeship insights, online courses, certifications, specialized safety training.
- Technical References: Industry standards (like OSHA or NESC), equipment manuals, technical guides.
- Safety Protocols: Best practices, PPE recommendations, lockout/tagout procedures, incident prevention.
- Tools & Technology: Reviews of new tools, essential gear, useful apps or software.
- Industry Insights: Trade publications, professional organizations, news that impacts our field.
- Problem-Solving: Tips for troubleshooting, efficient work methods, innovative solutions.
- Career Growth: Advice on professional development, leadership, or navigating career paths.
To kick things off, I’d suggest:
- Always having the NESC (National Electrical Safety Code) readily accessible, whether in print or digital format. It’s truly foundational.
- Regularly reviewing OSHA standards, particularly 1910.269, for comprehensive safety guidelines.
- Exploring resources from reputable organizations like the IBEW or EEI for industry updates and safety initiatives.
Now, it’s your turn! What are the resources you simply can’t do without? What helps you stay sharp, safe, and effective on the job?
Please share:
- The name of the resource.
- What type of resource it is (e.g., book, website, training, specific tool).
- Why you find it so valuable.
- (Optional) A link if it’s an online resource.
Let’s build a comprehensive and truly useful collection for all linemen here. Your contributions will make a real difference.
Stay safe and power on!