Important Notices & Accommodations

Program Description

Powerline technicians are responsible for the construction and maintenance of electrical transmission and distribution lines. In order to conduct this type of work, a four-year apprenticeship under the auspices of the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) is required.

IHSA is one of a limited number of training delivery agents designated by the MLTSD to provide the skills based training for all four levels of the Powerline Technician Apprenticeship.

Each level covers all relevant theory and practical topics required for the apprenticeship program including work techniques and the legislation regarding safe work. Apprentices will learn from highly experienced, professional trainers. Then they will demonstrate understanding of their newly acquired skills using well-tested and evaluated safe work methods through a unique transition from classroom to practical field applications.

All apprentices will receive a level-three evaluation based on the Kirkpatrick training evaluation model. All four levels of the apprenticeship are held in Mississauga at IHSA’s Skills Development Centre, which features modern facilities and top-of-the-line equipment. The training centre features a confined space simulator, an energized three-phase underground yard, and two energized overhead lines.

The Level One program is a basic introduction to line work. Apprentices will cover emergency plans, basic electrical theory, job planning, manual material handling, pole line construction, rescue techniques, work area protection, stringing, terminating, and splicing secondary underground cable, and much more. All lessons promote and employ the use of safe work methods.

Prerequisites

All apprentices are required to have at least three months of line experience through their employer. Apprentices are expected to complete up to five days of self-directed study prior to the session. Training manuals will be supplied prior to the course.

Learning Evaluation

A score of 70% on the learning evaluation is required for successful completion of the course.

Participant Course Evaluation

At the end of the training, participants will have the opportunity to evaluate and provide comments about the training they received.

Personal Protective Equipment / What to Bring

Participants are required to bring their own CSA-approved head, eye, and foot protection, leather work gloves, Class 1 or 2 rubber gloves, clothing suitable for outside work (FR rated for work in an electrical environment), climbing equipment and hand tools (belt and spurs), and approved fall restrict system for climbing wood poles. A calculator is also required. Attendees will not be permitted to participate in the course if they do not bring the noted personal protective equipment and tools.