The introduction of bar-coding technology is making a big difference in the industry’s supply chain. Once considered an unnecessary step, bar coding of materials has proven itself to be a valuable cost-cutting tool for utilities.

Advancements in thermodynamics and biometrics are making it possible for utilities to meet—and even exceed—security-related compliance affordably and efficiently.

Advance notice of potential storm outages is becoming easier as technology continues to improve and cutting-edge weather modeling systems get better at identifying territory impacts and predicting the number of outage locations and customers affected.

Arc flash is a constant danger for those working around electrical switch gear equipment, transformers, power stations and new construction utility junctions. What are the dangers of arc flash and what is the best way to avoid arc flash to start with, especially when working around utility poles and underground power lines?

Wind can create dangerous conditions for linemen and those on the ground below them. Review these safety reminders to keep everyone safe.

We’re facing a talent shortage in the utility industry. There’s no doubt you’ve heard or experienced it yourself. But is it true?

One of the biggest differences between generations is communication style, which may seem insignificant but it can have a surprising impact on team dynamics.

As customers continue to seek energy management advice from their service providers, utilities are presented with opportunities to strengthen trusted relationships and expand their revenue-generating services.

Dielectrics are critically important to utility workers. But how much do you really know about dielectrics? Is it enough to keep your workers safe?

In every part of our lives, we’re reminded how interconnected our world has become. This includes our energy infrastructure. This interconnectivity, however, also introduces vulnerabilities to the grid.

Downtime is costly for any business. For utilities it can be devastating. Fewer business functions are more important to utilities than maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) in order to reduce outages and downtime.

New and innovative smart grid products are pushing the industry from an era of smart grid adoption to an era of smart grid maturity.

Ladders on jobsites are as common as forks and spoons in a kitchen. No matter the jobsite, ladders are standard equipment, especially in the utilities industry. Yet every year, 4,000 workers are injured from improperly using ladders, causing injuries so serious they miss work or worse.

With age comes valuable experience, but it can also come with a loss of dexterity and other physical changes that can present a true danger on the line.

Winter weather is a serious danger. Keep linemen safe by reminding them to take these simple precautions as they rush out into the harsh conditions the rest of us may be lucky enough to avoid.

The amount of security-related assets utilities need to manage has increased rapidly over the past decade. Multiple layers of protection are needed, not only on a physical level but also on a digital level.

The decision to update lighting isn’t just a matter of cost. Safety is also on the line. Those poised to convert to LEDs may need to take a leap of faith and plan for safety that exceeds current standards.

How can utility companies meet the demand for new, advanced digital meters, as cost-effectively and as efficiently as possible?

David Batz, ‎senior director of cyber and infrastructure security at Edison Electric Institute, explains how the mutual assistance program can help electric companies in the event of a cyber incident.

The problem for utilities in setting up high-tech security measures at laydown yards is an ironic one: a lack of power. But advances in alternative power sources are making it possible.

Recruiting new talent on all levels within the utilities industry is going to be critical in the next few years in order for the industry to thrive. But the game has changed.

Human error can lead to big problems in power distribution. From large-scale power outages to gas explosions, one mistake can have dire consequences. So what's the key to reducing human error?

Flood hardening. Even utilities that are not in a coastal region or high-risk flood zone should take it seriously. Ground-zero for flood hardening are substations, which can make or break a utility’s flood response effort.

Smart meters are fast becoming beacons of efficiency and cost savings, not just for utilities but for customers as well.

With the advent of the smart grid, utilities operations seem to be running faster than ever. But one question remains: How will the workforce keep up?

Nothing gets in the way of business as usual like a winter storm. However, with the right planning, it's possible to get ahead of potential storms.

With the transition to renewable energy, a utility provider's success now depends on its efficiency. So is renewable energy a friend or foe of the utility industry?

Kitting solutions are key to safer, faster and more consistent storm response, but their usefulness extends far beyond storms.

It’s no secret that working outdoors in winter’s harsh weather can be dangerous. In this article, we explore the hidden dangers of cold stress.

Since the dawn of electricity, utilities have had to rely on customers to be their eyes and ears out in the field. Enter the Smart Grid, and these types of frustrations have begun to shrink significantly—to the relief of both the utility and its customers.

he health of your tools – everything from screwdrivers and wrenches to hydraulics – can mean the difference between keeping the power on or having the lights out while you wait for a new tool to arrive or an older one to be repaired.

Spring storms can strike with very little advance notice. In fact, the lead time for tornado warnings is an average of only 13 minutes.So how should utilities prepare for a storm that they may not know is heading their way?