OVERVIEW

Linemen and cablemen construct and maintain the electric transmission and distribution facilities that deliver electrical energy to our homes, factories, and commercial establishments. They provide important skilled services to the electrical industry important because the health and welfare of the public are dependent on reliable electric service.

When emergencies develop as a result of lightning, wind, or ice storms, linemen and cablemen respond to restore electric service at any time of the day or night.

An understanding of electrical principles and their application in electrical construction and maintenance work is essential to completing the work safely, efficiently, and reliably. New equipment and the public's increased dependence on continuous electric service require that all linemen and cablemen be highly skilled.

The time and effort spent studying these pages will increase the reader's knowledge of electric distribution and transmission facilities and improve his skills. Every lineman, cable-man, and groundman should develop the highest possible level of skills so that he will be able to meet the challenges of the work and be qualified for promotion when the opportunity becomes available.

As a testament to the significance of the role that the lineman has had in the United States, the following summary was submitted by Alan Drew, Northwest Lineman College.

"A hot crew with their hot wagon." This photograph is from the 1930s when live line work was in its infancy and was specialized at many companies. Lineman working on these crews developed many effective methods and tools that are still used today.