Work environment safety and body in the trade

The utilities operator works out in the field in transformer stations and in front of screens in a control centre. It is a versatile job — but it also makes demands on how you take care of body and mind. Here we take a closer look at the working environment so you can sustain the trade for many years.

§The greatest risks

The greatest danger is electrical current. An electric shock can be fatal, and arcs from short circuits can cause severe burns. Therefore, the entire trade is infused with procedures designed to eliminate the risk before you even touch an installation. But there are other hazards to be aware of.

• 01Electric shock and arc — the most serious but also most regulated risk.
• 02Work at height in masts and at stations — falls must be secured
• 03Heavy lifting of cables, cable drums and equipment
• 04Weather and temperature — you work outside in rain, cold and heat
• 05Work in excavations and confined spaces with risk of collapse

§Ergonomics — take care of your back in the long run.

Cables and equipment are heavy and much work happens in awkward positions – on your knees in an excavation or with your arms overhead. This is where a working life can be worn out if you don't do something active. Good lifting techniques, technical aids and varying your working positions are not fussy – it's what makes a difference when you're 55.

§The psychological work environment

Supply must run 24 hours a day and that often means shifts call-outs and work outside normal hours. Changing work hours affect sleep and family life and the responsibility for critical infrastructure can in itself be a strain when the power is out and many are waiting for you to get it back. A good shift environment and clear agreements in the team matter a lot here.

§How you learn by doing, instead of just reading

Safety is not only the individual's responsibility. On a good workplace you talk about risks before the task starts, you use the personal protective equipment needed, and you speak up if something does not feel responsible. As an apprentice you have both the right and duty to speak up — an experienced colleague would rather stop than see you get hurt.

• 01Risk assessment before the task is started
• 02Correct protective equipment and insulated tools for the specific task
• 03A culture where it's okay to stop and speak up
• 04Assistive devices for heavy lifting instead of gritting your teeth

“The most important thing you take home from work is yourself — in one piece.”