WEBVTT

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Electricity… telephone…

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cable TV… Internet...

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the communication lines that support access

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to these modern essentials

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are in constant use.

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Line installers and repairers

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maintain the power systems and cables

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needed to keep access flowing.

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The power grid is the network of power lines

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that moves electricity

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from generating plants to customers.

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Electrical power-line installers and repairers

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install and maintain the power grid.

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Telecommunications line installers

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and repairers work on the lines and cables

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used by network communications companies.

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Line installers dig underground trenches

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and erect poles and towers

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to install new cable.

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They use construction equipment, such as

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trucks equipped with augers and cranes,

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to dig holes and set poles in place.

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Line repairers replace old equipment

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and maintain existing lines.

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The work can be physically demanding.

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Work is often performed at great heights

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or in confined spaces, and outdoors

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under challenging weather conditions.

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Workers need good balance,

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and the strength to climb utility poles

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and transmission towers.

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Line workers maintain strict safety procedures,

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as they encounter hazards such as falls,

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high-voltages or dangerous gases,

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which make the occupation among

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the most dangerous.

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Although most work

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regular full-time business hours,

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some must work evenings and weekends.

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Some workers travel to maintain a large region.

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In emergencies workers may have

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to work long hours for several days in a row.

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Most entry level positions

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require a high school diploma or equivalent;

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line installers and repairers

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receive long-term on-the-job training

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to become fully proficient.