How are utility poles placed in the ground?

For a single wood utility pole structure, a pole is placed in the ground, then three crossarms extend from this, either staggered or all to one side. The insulators are attached to the crossarms. For an “H”-type wood pole structure, two poles are placed in the ground, then a crossbar is placed on top of these, extending to both sides.

Can a utility pole be replaced if it is unsafe?

Without routine inspections, the utility company won’t be on alerted by a utility worker when a wood utility pole has deteriorated into a dangerous and unsafe condition — although the power and utility companies are still on notice because they know how long these wood utility poles are supposed to safely last before they are replaced.

How old is a wood utility pole supposed to be?

A wood utility pole is supposed to last between 50 and 60 years assuming routine maintenance. But when it’s not inspected regularly or timely replaced, electrocution risk increases If you have a wood utility pole in your backyard or in the front of your house, how can you tell whether it’s still safe? A wood utility pole can be dangerous.

How does a utility pole bore test work?

Bore test: The side of the pole is drilled to determine its strength. Drilling: Utility companies will dig out right below the surface of the soil, where the pole emerges, to check for rot or insect infestation.

Which is the best description of a utility pole?

A utility pole is a column or post used to support overhead power lines and various other public utilities, such as electrical cable, fiber optic cable, and related equipment such as transformers and street lights. It can be referred to as a transmission pole, telephone pole, telecommunication pole, power pole,…

Is it safe to have a utility pole in your backyard?

It can also develop fungi and insects. It’s open to chemical exposure and to pollution. Its integrity gets weakened by snow, rain, wind and ice. That’s why your utility company is required to perform routine maintenance and safety inspections.

When does a wood utility pole need to be replaced?

There are still poles that are standing in urban areas in the Midwest and Northeast that are 85 years. When should a wood utility pole be replaced? By law, utility companies have a legal duty to replace a utility pole when its strength has deteriorated by half of its original manufacturing strength.

What causes a utility pole to lean on one side?

Wooden utility poles are susceptible to a number of common “ailments” that could cause them to list dangerously to one side. Rot can weaken a pole at its base, causing it to lean. Pests such as wood-boring ants, termites, and woodpeckers can damage a pole’s structural integrity.