At ELTI students learn the proper handling of dozens of tools. From pop tools and chain hoists, to bracing bits and wire grips. However, there are four tools that a graduating apprentice must have on their body at all times once they join a line crew. Those are: Klein’s, channel locks, electrical tape, and a skinning knife.
When on storm in Rome earlier in 2021, I helped my lineman splice in new #2 triplex into a span that had fallen across a road (de-energized, by the way). I had the right length of triplex, and the correct pop tool, but I forgot a roll of 2″ tape in the truck.
This displeased my lineman and he sent me off at a sprint to go get tape. I returned and expected to get to work on the splice, but was told to drop and bang out twenty pushups for the crime of not having tape. He started on the splice while I got some extra bodyweight training.
The lesson was clear – ALWAYS have tape!