Linemen are the unsung yet entirely essential heroes of energy delivery. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics places electrical line workers among the top ten most dangerous jobs in the United States. This year, National Lineman Appreciation Day is Friday, April 18. This article is dedicated to the sacrifices made daily by these tireless workers on the frontlines of American energy.
How Linemen Keep American Energy Running
“Linemen” is an industry term worn with pride by the line workers or electrical line installers and repairers who are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical power systems in both demanding and often dangerous conditions.
These essential workers service overhead structures such as power lines and streetlights, as well as underground utility systems. On a daily basis, linemen in the U.S. ensure that the nation’s electrical power system, from power plants to homes and businesses, is functioning correctly.
Risks Linemen Face Every Day
Inherent to electrical work, the tasks that linemen accomplish daily are incredibly dangerous. Linemen face a significantly higher risk of workplace fatalities compared to the general population, with their fatality rate being nearly five times higher than the national average. While the number of fatalities has slightly increased in recent years, improvements in safety measures have led to a decline in nonfatal injuries, according to Utility Dive.
However, injured lineworkers can face a litany of legal battles after a workplace injury. Florida workers’ compensation attorney Erika Brenneman explains, “Eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits depends on the specific employer and where the work is performed. For example, if the employee is working on an oil rig located in the ocean, on a military base, or for the Federal government, the employee would typically not be eligible for Florida Workers’ Compensation benefits; these cases typically fall under federal jurisdiction. However, if the work is performed for the State of Florida, a City, or a County within Florida, the employee is eligible to collect Florida Workers’ Compensation benefits.”
Despite the risks of the profession and the hurdles they can face if they are injured, these brave men and women assume the risk and get the job done to help secure American energy. On this National Lineman Day, we salute them and thank them for everything they do.
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