Hot stick facts for kids
A hot stick is a special tool that utility workers, often called linemen, use when they work with powerful electricity. It's a long, insulated pole, usually made of Fiberglass. These poles can be from 5 feet to 40 feet long! Workers can attach different tools to the end of a hot stick. This lets them do many jobs, like tightening bolts, checking electricity levels, or changing fuses.
What is a Hot Stick?
Hot sticks are designed to keep workers safe. They are made from materials that don't conduct electricity, like fiberglass. This insulation protects the person holding the stick from high voltage electricity.
Why Are Hot Sticks Used?
Hot sticks are used when the electrical equipment is still turned on, or "live." Most work on high voltage power lines is done while the power is still active. This is called "working hot." Working this way is very important for safety. It also means that electricity users don't lose power while routine maintenance or repairs are happening. Imagine if the power went out every time a worker needed to check a power line! Hot sticks help prevent that.
What Can Hot Sticks Do?
Because different tools can be attached to the end of a hot stick, they are very versatile. Linemen can use them to:
- Tighten nuts and bolts on power lines.
- Test the amount of electricity flowing through a line.
- Remove and replace fuses safely.
- Clean insulators on power poles.
- Move wires without touching them directly.
These tools help linemen do their jobs safely and efficiently, keeping our electricity running smoothly.
Images for kids
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A linesman working for Country Energy in Australia closing a circuit using a hot stick.
