The global power sector is booming. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), by 2023 this market will add 2.5 million jobs, reflecting 3.8% growth driven by investments in clean energy and energy infrastructure. This development highlights the importance of having highly qualified professionals to maintain the continuity of energy supply. In this sense, the Lineman stands out as a fundamental pillar for modern society.
What does a Lineman do?
The Live Line electricians are professionals specialized in performing maintenance tasks on energized distribution networks and power transmission lines without interrupting the power supply. These specialists apply different strategies and work methods to be able to operate safely and efficiently in energized systems.
On a daily basis, workers perform various tasks, such as:
- Electrical connections;
- Installation or replacement of damaged components on poles or towers;
- Cleaning and removal of dead animals or animal nests, such as birds or small primates;
- Preparation of the ground around the structures for access and work;
- Preparation of technical reports;
- Preventive maintenance planning;
First and foremost, as a general safety rule, all activities involving direct action on the circuit must undergo a preliminary risk analysis (PRA).
However, when direct intervention in the system is not required, professionals often provide support in other areas, such as network and de-energized line maintenance, infrastructure construction, technical inspections or even administrative work. Part of this time must also be devoted to periodic training and recertification. This strategy may vary between companies and/or countries.
The challenges of the profession
This kind of job is recognized as one of the riskiest professions in the world (More information in: 10 Most Dangerous Jobs In The World: Explore Riskiest Occupations | IBTimes). Undoubtedly, it is a job that does not allow for mistakes. Among the main challenges faced by these professionals are:
- Work at height: Frequent tasks on towers, poles and elevated structures;
- Electrical hazards: Direct or close contact with high-voltage energized circuits;
- Physical effort: Need to handle heavy tools and perform repetitive movements;
- Environmental constraints: presence of dangerous animals, dense vegetation in some areas and intense exposure to heat, in addition to the inconvenience caused by protective equipment;
- Psychological pressure: need for great concentration to avoid mistakes, even under stressful conditions;
- Operations management: The critical nature of the work requires the professional to have a high level of organization and discipline to keep equipment functional, clean and in perfect condition at all times, as well as to strictly follow safety protocols and technical procedures.
- Technical complexity: Working with the maintenance of energized systems requires the mastery of work methodologies and materials and equipment technologies;
However, meticulous planning of operations, careful selection of personnel, training and recertification, and the use of specialized safety equipment mean that risk is controlled and work is very safe.
In addition, a lineman in Brazil receive additional health and safety benefits. These benefits, combined with the positive social impact, make this a challenging but rewarding career choice.
Live Line electrician profile
Being a lineman requires much more than technical knowledge. The ideal professional possesses a set of indispensable personal and professional characteristics:
- Emotional balance and physical health: essential for coping with stress and intense physical demands;
- Teamwork: operations in energized systems depend on good synergy between team members;
- Assertive communication: essential to ensure that information is understood and executed accurately;
- Passion for the profession: The profession must make sense for the professional’s life or career plan. Otherwise, there is a risk of negligence or poor execution of activities.
- Planning and organization: following technical standards and procedures is vital to ensure safe and successful operations.
- Previous industry experience: This job requires a solid base of electrical experience, as this activity is a specialty that requires in-depth technical knowledge and hands-on experience with energized systems.
In addition to technical knowledge of the methodology, linemen must have a thorough knowledge of safety standards and be constantly updated. In this way, they can ensure the protection of the circuit, their own lives and those of their colleagues.
These qualities must be evaluated regularly and very seriously, ensuring that only the best prepared can work in this field. Do you want to know more about the Lineman’s Profile? Access the complete document prepared by CTST, with all the recommendations for professionals in the sector!
How to become a Lineman?
To enter this career, linemen receive specialized training that enables them to operate safely in adverse conditions. Training, as well as periodic recertification, is what helps keep these professionals alive, preparing them to face adverse situations in the field safely and effectively.
In this context, there are some prerequisites for specialization students:
- Be able to work with electricity or similar;
- Basic and complementary certification in the country’s safety regulations for electrical work;
- Previous experience working on de-energized circuits;
Companies in the sector, such as energy companies and subcontractors, are among the main recruiters, valuing committed professionals with the right profile. In fact, it is common for the companies themselves to invest in their employees with specialization courses related to the sector.
Taking the next step
Continuity of energy supply is essential to the functioning of modern society, and the work of the Live Line electricians plays a crucial role in this regard. They are essential to the stability of society, helping to maintain a functional and active economy.
If your company wants to train teams to work safely on energized networks and lines, CTST offers specialized training in the sector. Contact us and find out how our expertise can add value to your operations and protect electricians’ lives, system continuity and your company’s safety.
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