25+ years working Powerline construction and maintenance across Canada and the US.
Helicopter operations being a large part of the execution from live line procedures to access.
Moving personnel, materials/tools, erection and stringing methods.
Stringent procedures and skill levels for the pilots and crews when dealing with transfers from the skid and long line techniques in some of the harshest environments, locations and weather.
Has always been a rush as part of the job, but also respect the training and procedures that allow this type of work to to be carried out.
As with most procedures and codes, each rule is written in blood from learnings of past events to ensure safe operations moving forward.
Ground and catching crews are as integral as those aloft, communication and a full comprehension of the task at hand is required.
Zero margin for error.
Have seen some amazing places and sights during these operations,
but always respect the nature of the work and the skillsets and experience of those in the operations and on the crews.
Most helicopter incidents are not forgiving, no matter what industry they are used for.
Hope those involved have a speedy recovery.
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