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City of Ashland, Oregon / Electric / City News

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Electric Department Holds Annual Pole Top Rescue Training

Rescue Pole Top Training — Pictured: Lonny Maybin, Dena Adame,
Jess Hawkins

On Friday, September 23, 2022, the City of Ashland Electric Department held their annual Pole Top Rescue Training. Trainings are required by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) for all journey level line installers to exhibit proficiency in pole top rescues. This exercise simulates the rescue of an injured line installer, typically rendered unconscious.

Outside of line installers, additional staff from the Electric Department and AFN (Ashland Fiber Network) take part with shear moral support, gentle encouragement and bucket rescue training. “Cross training is important in this line of work in order to ensure the safety of all electrical workers,” stated Thomas McBartlett III, City of Ashland Director of Electric. “The City contracts with Jesse Langslet of Evergreen Job and Safety Training, Inc. Evergreen provides monthly and annual training for all staff.” It is apparent when you see Langslet interacting with the staff that they all share a bond. The overall atmosphere at one of these trainings is supportive and inclusive--- as they work as a team and keep an eye on one another. An example of how working together makes the City of Ashland, ‘Better Together!’

The trainings are held at the City Yard located at 90 N Mountain Ave in Ashland. Here, hands-on field training takes place.

Three employees from AFN typically join the monthly and annual trainings. AFN is overseen by the City’s new Director of Innovation & Technology, Jason Wegner. The City of Ashland employs 17 people in the Electric Department. Currently, the department has two job openings. View jobs with the City.

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