By Brian Bultje, Manager of Operations
Before a crew member raises a bucket near a power line, they need to trust the truck’s insulation. They also need to know their coworkers are prepared if something goes wrong.
That’s why equipment testing and training continue year after year at Central Electric. Recently, our operations crews and electricians worked with the South Dakota Rural Electric Association (SDREA) to complete annual dielectric testing on our trucks.
The tests check whether each truck’s insulated parts still provide the protection they’re designed to provide to help ensure our safety. Over time, wear and tear along with exposure to the elements can affect that insulation. Testing helps us find problems before a crew relies on a truck in the field.
Our line crews also practiced pole top rescue. If someone is injured or can’t get down from a pole, coworkers need to be ready to help. Practicing each year helps keep those skills sharp.
Most members won’t see this part of the job, but it matters every time our crews head out. Thanks to SDREA for helping us look out for one another and stay ready to serve our members.