Meet the Line Mechanic

Hard Hat -
The hard hat protects the line mechanic if he accidentally bumps his head, or something falls on him from above.

Safety Glasses -
These safety glasses have very hard lenses and hard plastic frames to protect their eyes from sparks or flying objects.

Rubber Sleeves -
Rubber sleeves protect the line mechanics in case they accidentally bump into an energized wire. The sleeves tuck into the top of the rubber gloves and go all the way up past the shoulders.

Rubber Gloves -
Their special rubber gloves don't allow any electricity to pass through. The line mechanics wear leather protectors over their rubber gloves - even the tiniest hole in the rubber can allow the electricity to pass through.

Tool Belt -
The heavy leather tool belt lets line mechanics carry lots of tools without using their hands. It can weigh more than 30 pounds!

Safety Strap -
When the line mechanics get to the top of a pole, they wrap a heavy leather strap around themselves and the pole and attach both ends to their safety belt. They can sit on the strap so they can work with both hands.

Climbing Spurs -
The climbing spurs have very sharp points that dig into a utility pole to help the line mechanic climb up to the top. They hook under the heel of the worker's boot and are held in place by heavy leather straps around the leg and ankles.

Safety Boots -
Line mechanics wear steel-toed safety boots to protect their feet from falling objects.