Electricity line Observer

[jm9]

Hi all,

Does anyone know the experience requirements to become an Observer on the electricity line inspection helicopters? I see both Western Power Distribution and National Grid do this work, do any other companies? I haven't been able to find any specific requirements so if anyone can shed some light that would be appreciated.

Cheers

[meleagertoo]

An immunity from airsickness would be a start!
When I was flying powerlines (pole lines - not national Grid) the Observers were all experineced powerline engineers employed by the electricity board concerned. A goodly number flew just one day...even I used to get a bit queasy at times.

[jm9]

Originally Posted by meleagertoo

An immunity from airsickness would be a start!
When I was flying powerlines (pole lines - not national Grid) the Observers were all experineced powerline engineers employed by the electricity board concerned. A goodly number flew just one day...even I used to get a bit queasy at times.

Was that sickness from having to use and look at a computer? I thought most of the flying was steady at low level?

[paco]

WPD have their own crewmen who are not line engineers. Best to get in touch directly.

[switch_on_lofty]

WPD are advertising or have recently. Job description should be there somewhere.

[haihio]

A lot of Powerline observers are ex linesmen.
They will have had a number of years of experience either building lines or performing maintenance tasks on them.
Some haven’t been linesmen and I don’t know how they get on to this type of work.

[Gordy]

The utility company will typically have requirements. I work with Pacific Gas & Electric in California. All linemen riding on helicopters complete an 8 hour CRM course specifically designed for the operation, and have to complete the course and testing annually. They are all experienced linemen or troublemen.