Electrical Substation Wireman Duties

A substation wireman has developed a working knowledge of substation equipment, apparatus and wiring. Their work on this equipment includes:

• Installation
• Maintenance
• Testing
• Adjusting
• Troubleshooting
• Repair

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Knowledge Base

An electrical substation wireman applies their knowledge and training on numerous pieces of substation gear. This includes switching and grounding equipment.

Equipment types include, but are not limited to:

• Transformers
• Regulators
• Load Tap Changers
• Circuit Breakers
• Circuit Switches
• Motor Operated and Manual Switches
• Bus Work
• Wiring
• Battery Banks and Chargers
• Substation Structures
• Switching and Grounding

Routine operations on substation apparatus include many testing duties. Activities such as testing power factor, transformer turns ratio, megger, battery load testing, oil sampling, and other analytical tests as assigned.

Wireman ensures that tools, test equipment, and vehicles are operated safely and responsibly.

Working Conditions

Electrical substation wireman work frequently with energized high voltage systems requiring skill and care to protect the lives of themselves and others.

Working in confined or elevated work areas is common place. Wiremen may also be required to work with bucket and boom trucks.

As a wireman, you may work independently or with others. Occasional long hours, especially during emergency conditions is required of wireman if the need is there.

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