Tool Exchange Programs

Western High Voltage works with several large utilities and contractors in managing their high voltage tool exchange programs. These programs differ from organization to organization based on IT infrastructure and requirements. Several of these programs have been in operation for 30+ years and are still evolving to this day.

Tracking test dates on Live line tools in the electrical utility industry is standard practice in accordance with ASTM, CSA and Occupational Health & Safety. 

The need to track live line tools is critical because linemen are using the tools daily with the accepted risk the tool will protect them from the working hazard. 

Historically, scheduling and tracking programs for live line tools have been developed by electrical utilities in house or on a spreadsheet with single user access and tools tracked by generalized access points such as area or district with no real assigned responsibility. These programs have been adequate to ensure sticks have been tested but do not do much more than this basic operation. These programs traditionally have poor visibility inside the programs and are often difficult to extract information when data comes into question. 

With the innovation of software and hardware tracking technologies it is now possible to track individual tools efficiently. Reducing risk to the electrical utility with greater visibility of where tools are being used in the field and who is responsible.

Operational- zero operational down time

Compliance- are the tools our employees use safe and in compliance

Responsibility- assigning responsibility to tools

Failure mode- how and why are products failing

Asset Life Cycle- how long are these items lasting (Only available on new products introduced)

Inventory Requirements- what is the correct level of inventory for our organization and what is currently in the field

Visibility- of tools and equipment inside organization

WHVTC utilizes existing structures of proven live line tool tracking programs and customizes them based on individual customers, IT systems and organizational structure of high voltage testing in house or by a third-party vendor. 

If existing, IT systems are desired to be used WHVTC can work with customers to integrate information into systems such as SAP and ORACLE. However, if a standalone system is preferred WHVTC has access to several cloud-based applications that can be accessed via desktop/smartphone or a combination of both.

WHVTC works with all stakeholder internal and external to identify changes to existing operations and assist with training implementation of new processes/procedures.