Conway Corp is proud to announce the completion of this year’s comprehensive inspection of more than 1,400 wooden utility poles throughout the city. This proactive measure underscores our commitment to maintaining a safe and reliable infrastructure for our community.
Conway Corp partners with Osmose Utilities Services yearly to conduct thorough inspections of the city’s wooden utility poles to identify and address potential issues that may arise from wear and tear, weather conditions and other environmental factors. These inspections are crucial in preventing power outages, enhancing public safety and ensuring the structural integrity of our utility network.
“These inspections are a part of the National Electric Safety code’s required maintenance routine,” Engineering and Planning Manager Dale Gottsponer said. “By identifying and addressing any weaknesses or damages early on, we can prevent potential hazards and do our best to provide uninterrupted service to our customers.”
The inspection process involves a detailed assessment of each pole, including checking for rot, cracks and insect damage. Poles that are more than ten years old are checked below the surface for signs of decay. Poles that were installed in the last ten years are visually inspected.
Poles that do not meet our safety standards are promptly repaired or replaced. This meticulous approach not only extends the lifespan of the utility poles but also minimizes the risk of service disruptions. Osmose has found the vast majority of decay occurs within 18 inches from ground level. Crews scrape away decay and place a preservative around the base. The upper portion of each pole is also inspected to make sure that no connections to power lines are loose.
This inspection program is part of our broader commitment to sustainability and safety. By maintaining the integrity of our utility poles, we are ensuring the city’s electrical infrastructure remains resilient in the face of natural disasters and other challenges.
