Closing the Operator Readiness Gap
Fleet management responsibilities have expanded in recent years as utilities have invested in advanced vehicle technology, telematics systems and more. Operator readiness, however, is frequently managed by other departments (e.g., training, safety, operations). This fragmented approach to risk potentially puts the keys to best-in-class assets in the hands of workers who are not fully prepared to handle them, begging the question: Can utility fleets adequately manage risk solely through equipment?
Risk often emerges from dynamic operating environments in which multiple hazards interact. It intensifies during storm response efforts, when the margin for error is narrowed by worker fatigue, wet conditions, limited visibility and damaged infrastructure. What might begin as a routine vehicle setup could quickly turn into work on unstable ground near energized lines.
Such environments demand highly capable vehicle and equipment operators. Employers are responsible for ensuring their preparedness. While that sounds straightforward enough, building operator readiness has become increasingly challenging for two primary reasons: utility infrastructure expansion and the continued exodus of experienced industry employees.
Workforce Shift
In 2024, just over 127,000 individuals were employed as electrical lineworkers, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That number is projected to grow 7% by 2034; in comparison, the average growth rate for all occupations is 3% (see www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/line-installers-and-repairers.htm). Meanwhile, 40% of the utility workforce will be eligible for retirement by 2030 (see https://cewd.org/resources/energy-workforce-fast-facts/).
Given that data, more operators must be prepared for specialized vehicle roles. It is important to note here that the difference between familiarity and true readiness typically shows up on the jobsite when a piece of equipment fails, conditions change or a routine task suddenly becomes less predictable. Delayed or uncertain operator responses during critical moments can increase risk. Overconfidence during roadside work can increase exposure. Lack of familiarity with equipment controls can raise the odds of energized contact, collision and setup error. Even when work appears routine, operators must be prepared for unexpected hazards, including unstable poles, equipment failures and near-tip conditions.
Catastrophic Errors
A recent incident occurred in which a boom operator contacted an energized line as he was repositioning equipment. Witnesses reported an explosion and ground fire. One crew member sustained fatal injuries; the two survivors suffered severe burns that required extended hospitalization.
From a fleet risk perspective, this incident illustrates how quickly a situation can escalate. Whether it’s an equipment positioning error, a slight control miscalculation or a lapse in hazard awareness, seemingly minor mistakes can become fatal events where heavy equipment, energized infrastructure and unstable field conditions converge.
Simulation: A Risk Mitigation Tool
Undoubtedly, operators need realistic practice before they confront high-risk field conditions. Simulation is gaining traction within the utility industry because it provides a safe, controlled environment in which operators can practice vehicle and equipment positioning, outrigger deployment, roadside setup and other tasks, helping them to build skill, judgment and confidence.
Further, simulator training reduces field deployment of fleet assets, preventing additional vehicle wear and lowering fuel costs. It also changes how organizations evaluate operator readiness.
Traditional observations and instructor judgment remain important, but they can vary across crews, locations and trainers. Simulation technology enables integration of defined learning paths, objective performance metrics and self-directed learning content, allowing employers to standardize their approach to operator readiness and more clearly understand which employees have practiced critical scenarios, demonstrated required skills and met established standards. The technology can also strengthen an employer’s ability to reduce risk, maintain a strong compliance record and review post-incident performance.
Conclusion
Utilities have modernized fleets, fortified compliance programs, and invested heavily in training and workforce development. These are critically important actions. However, more must be done to eliminate serious injuries and fatalities in utility operations.
For fleet leaders, the takeaway is clear: Operator readiness must be built before it is tested on the job. Safety will not be achieved solely through advanced equipment features, maintenance programs or compliance checklists. Simulation offers utilities a controlled method to build skill before field conditions expose deficiencies.
About the Author: Devon Van de Kletersteeg is a product growth manager at CM Labs (https://cm-labs.com), where he leverages his engineering background to address real-world training needs with simulation technology.