A few years ago, KEC implemented a new System Inspection and Maintenance Plan. The plan outlines a methodical approach to how we inspect and maintain every piece of equipment on our system. This includes major equipment and other minor components on overhead transmission lines, substations, and overhead and underground distribution lines, inclusive of vegetation management and all KEC infrastructure up to the meters installed at each KEC service point.
When I was involved with this process, I inspected work conducted by our tree trimming crews along with the electrical infrastructure by ground patrol with an aerial bucket or by using a drone in areas difficult to access. Any defect noted during the inspection was flagged with a priority and synchronized to a database for follow-up. With the data collected, a KEC field engineering technician assigned to maintenance work reviewed the findings and created service orders for repairs or created designs for equipment replacements where needed.
Although I am no longer involved in this process, we still have lineworkers conducting this work. The intent of the program is to proactively identify potential problems and act upon them before they negatively affect KEC’s service reliability.
Tell us about your day as a foreman and the focus of your crew’s work.
As a foreman, I am responsible for the work and safety of a crew, which is made up of journeymen apprentice linemen, and an equipment operator. We usually travel with a digger derrick, a large bucket truck, a small bucket truck, and a backhoe with a trailer. Most of my crew’s work involves connecting new members to electric service in low-density areas. We also conduct any necessary maintenance work while doing new construction work. For example, a pole might need to be changed out before we can extend service to another member. Due to the growth in our area, we have a few crews working on new construction or service work.