In a coordinated effort with IBEW members, Aldridge designed and invested in two state-of-the-art training trailers to ensure we thoroughly prepare our employees to safely perform utility work. This investment in training, along with our IIF safety culture, sets Aldridge apart and keeps our employees going home safely every day.
“Previously, training on utility projects was done on the job,” said Bill Sullivan, Aldridge’s training manager who travels with the trailers. “It was the sharing of tribal knowledge from whoever you were working with. If you were with someone who was really an ace, you might be fine, but it was not standardized. You were working in a dark space and it was kind of a trial-and-error thing. Now we have an official training program through the use of the training trailers,” he said. “Everyone is being trained by the same manual and the same trainer. The program creates a level playing field so everyone is on the same page.”
The investment in these training trailers is one of many efforts made by Aldridge to provide all employees with the training and resources needed to safely perform their work. “It’s pretty simple,” said one of the company’s owners, Alex Aldridge. “We want everyone to go home safe every night. That’s our culture and the reason we invested in developing this training program.”
Aldridge’s first safety training trailer is 53’ long and includes a network transformer and network protector. The trailer is set up for normal maintenance training following established procedures. When Aldridge wants to create a particular training experience, a generator under the trailer frame allows them to send power to the secondary network cables allowing crews to gain experience working within that scenario.
The second safety training trailer is a 23’ long converted auto racing car hauler. It allows simulation for removing a disabled worker during an emergency, complete with a 180-pound dummy wearing a work belt and helmet, that workers hoist atop the trailer. Aldridge utilizes a third-party subcontractor to demonstrate manhole rescues.
These trailers offer a traveling alternative to the brick and mortar training facilities most utilities have. We can reach our crews across the country and simulate the compact environment they are likely to work in while helping members learn from instructors in a safe setting.
Even seasoned lineman that are being asked to work in underground for the first time benefit from this experience. It helps make the transition to underground smoother.
Learn more about Aldridge’s Safety Culture here.