AUSTIN The Public Utility Commission of Texas on April 18 recognized National Line Worker Appreciation Day to honor the men and women who work tirelessly to ensure reliable electricity and protect public safety around the clock, often in extremely hazardous conditions, a news release said.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports Texas is home to more utility line workers than any other state in the country, with nearly 14,000 line workers.
“Line workers are the first responders of the electric industry and work around the clock to make sure the power stays on in their communities,” Chairman of the Public Utility Commission of Texas Thomas Gleeson said in the release. “These dedicated public servants take on considerable risk, working daily with thousands of volts of electricity to make sure we have the power we need to live our daily lives. The Public Utility Commission of Texas appreciates the vital role these skilled professionals play in powering our state, and we sincerely thank them for their service to Texans.”
Line workers install, maintain, and repair the transmission and distribution wires that deliver power to homes and businesses across the state and country. According to statistics compiled by USA Today, working as a line worker is among the 20 most dangerous jobs in America. Their work is physically demanding and can be unpredictable, as line workers are among the first responders to hurricanes and other natural disasters. Line workers are a specialized class of electrical worker and can perform maintenance and repairs on overhead and underground power lines, telecommunications lines, electric subsystems, and other components.
April 18 was designated National Lineman Appreciation Day on April 10, 2013, through U.S. Senate Resolution 95.
In Texas, the Texas Lineman’s Rodeo Association (TLRA) provides opportunities for volunteers to gather and promote electrical safety, the continued education of line workers, and innovation in the industry. The non-profit organization hosts the Texas Lineman’s Rodeo Event to showcase the skill and pride of the high voltage linework profession.
