Transmission Line Repair - Hot Sticks

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Taking transmission lines out of service for repairs or maintenance can be difficult and costly.  For this reason, transmission lines are often worked on while they are energized.  The two basic methods of working on energized lines are the bare hand method and the hot stick method.  With the bare hand method, special tools and equipment allow direct contact with an energized conductor.  With the hot stick method, insulated poles and other equipment are used to protect lineworkers from energized conductors.

COURSE GOAL

• This training unit introduces the hot stick method and discusses what hot sticks are, how they are used, and how they are inspected and maintained.  Emphasis is placed on safety considerations associated with the use of hot sticks.

SUBJECTS AND OBJECTIVES

Introduction to Hot Sticks

• Define “hot sticks”.

• Explain the meanings of “potential”, “safe working distances”, and “minimum clearance” as they apply to hot sticks and hot stick safety.

• Recognize some of the basic types of hot sticks and hot stick accessories used for transmission line maintenance.

Planning the Job

• Explain the type of planning necessary to perform a job using hot sticks.

• Explain the purpose of the coating on hot sticks.

• Demonstrate and explain the basic requirements for inspecting and storing hot sticks.   

Insulator Changeout (Suspension)

• Describe a basic procedure for changing out an insulator string in the suspension position on a spar pole structure.

• Identify the types of hot sticks used to change out the insulator string.

• Identify safety considerations associated with using hot sticks.    

Insulator Changeout (“V” String)

• Describe a basic procedure for changing out a “V” string of insulators on a lattice tower.

• Recognize the use of basic techniques when using hot sticks to change out a “V” string of insulators.

• Identify and explain the basic considerations for safety on this type of job.

Insulator Changeout (Dead-End), Part 1

• Explain the planning considerations necessary to prepare for changing out a string of dead-end insulators on a lattice tower.

• Identify and explain the functions of the basic hot stick equipment needed to perform this type of job.

• Identify and explain the basic considerations for safety on this type of job.    

Insulator Changeout (Dead-End), Part 2

• Explain the major tasks that must be accomplished in order to change out a string of dead-end insulators on a lattice tower.

• Describe the basic techniques of using hot sticks to perform these tasks.