Job Competency Forms

Job Competency Forms to support consistent training, evaluation, and professional development across member systems.

These forms outline the skills, knowledge, and performance standards required for various cooperative roles, ensuring employees are prepared to work safely and effectively.

VMDAEC Training Center - Job Competency Forms

Below you will find the job competency forms for the Lineman program.

Please select the appropriate form to complete and hit SUBMIT when you have completed it.

For questions and additional information:
Rachael Freeman or call (434) 510-4000

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

Apprentice Name

1. Become familiar with Safety Manual regulations/procedures.

2. Identify and demonstrate how to use and care for tools a Lineman will use.

3. Properly store tools on the truck.

4. Install an anchor.

5. Assemble and install guys on a pole before it is erected.

6. Pull and attach guy to anchor.

7. Place warning and safety devices to protect the public and workers on the job site.

8. Load and bind poles on a pole trailer.

9. Identify the types and sizes of ropes and coil properly for storage.

10. Has been introduced to pole top and bucket rescue procedures.

11. Name the various electrical devices used on the job.

12. String out wire on the ground and make splices.

13. Work on the ground to serve lineman on pole.

14. Inventories and replenishes stock on trucks.

15. Disassemble material taken from a pole.

16. Familiar with the location of fire extinguishers and first aid kits on trucks.

17. Assemble crossarms to be installed on poles.

18. Emergency use of Communication System (radio).

19. Use and care of personal protective equipment (hard hat and safety glasses).

20. Familiar with RUS Specifications (overhead and underground).

21. Properly inspect and explain the use of rubber gloves and sleeves.

22. Locate nametag on synthetic sling and explain information found there.

23. Inspect and properly set up a ladder.

24. Tie the various knots used in the line trade.

25. Spend time climbing poles (only under the direction of a person in charge).

26. Ability to follow directions.

27. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Name

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 1 PDF

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Identify ropes and where they are to be used.

2. Take information from electrical devices needed to compete records.

3. Demonstrate how to inspect a First Aid Kit.

4. Perform the necessary work on the ground to serve a Lineman working on a pole.

5. Good housekeeping at the job site.

6. Explain why it is important to have Job Briefings and what should be covered.

7. Use of a two-way radio.

8. Prepare a transformer for hoisting up a pole.

9. Install ground rod at a pole and make the connections.

10. Perform pole top and bucket rescue procedure.

11. Using Ohms Law demonstrate ability to calculate voltage, amperage, & resistance of a circuit.

12. Explain the difference between a conventional and a CSP transformer.

13. Explain the difference between personal fall arrest and work positioning systems.

14. Explain what OSHA is and why it was organized.

15. Safety operates right-of-way tools (axe, bush axe, chain saw, pruners, etc.)

16. Properly inspects personal climbing tools.

17. Explain three methods of testing a wooden pole.

18. Frame the following poles (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5).

19. Knowledge of electricity from generation until it reaches the members.

20. Skills climbing poles.

Number of Hours Climbed:

21. Ability to follow directions.

22. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Name

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Superintendent's Name

Superintendent's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 2 PDF

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Inspect, set up and operate a line truck.

2. Check voltage at member’s meter base.

3. At a designated pole, identify the various circuits or other installations such as telephone wire & cables.

4. Understands what materials are required to make up personal protective grounds.

5. Install a member’s meter and record the information.

6. Install personal protective grounds on a line that has been de-energized (both overhead & underground).

7. Demonstrate how to use a Voltage Detector on a line.

8. Use hand signals for loading or unloading poles on or from a trailer.

9. Demonstrate how to inspect and clean a hot stick.

10. Place lights or flags on a trailer when hauling poles.

11. Identify types of single-phase transformers (conventional, CSP, or pad mount).

12. Use of an amp meter.

13. Demonstrate how to visually inspect a set of rope blocks.

14. Spend time climbing poles (only under the direction of a person in charge).

15. Ability to follow directions.

16. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Name

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 3 PDF

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Select proper tension sleeves and tools to splice conductors.

2. Identify primary voltages on distribution circuit.

3. Demonstrate the proper use of a 3-phase rotation meter.

4. RUS Specifications (overhead and underground).

5. Demonstrate chain saw safety.

6. Install personal protective grounds on a line that has been de-energized (both overhead & underground).

7. Properly set up warning signs when working beside a highway.

9. Sag primary wire off the pole.

10. Hang transformers off the pole.

11.Use and inspect all hot line tools.

12. Install armor rods.

13. Skills Climbing poles.

Number of hours climbed.

14. Ability to follow directions.

15. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Name

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 4 PDF

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Take ampere readings on a primary line using tong ammeter.

2. Demonstrate the ability to read different types of electric meters. (Digital and Mechanical).

3. Use a sag chart, check the sag in a single-phase line.

4. Properly obtain clearance to remove grounds.

5. Properly discharge a capacitor before removing it from a pole.

6. Obtain clearance and properly install protective grounds on a 3-phase line that has been taken out of service.

7. Follow proper grounding procedures when splicing a conductor on the ground.

8. Identify the following types of transformers . • power • distribution • potential • current

9. Operate distribution protection equipment (i.e. cutouts, single and three-phase breakers).

10. Proper makeup of terminators, elbows, splices (primary & secondary) & transformers (single & three phase).

11. Proper procedure for rubber cover-ups on energized line.

12. Inspect, set up, and operate bucket truck.

13. Properly inspect and use rubber cover up.

14. Change out various line equipment (poles, x-arms, transformers, etc.) using bucket truck on energized line.

15. Trouble shoot on both overhead and underground lines.

16. Skills Climbing poles.

Number of hours climbed.

17. Ability to follow directions.

18. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Name

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 5 PDF

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Install a set of double arms in the buck arm position with the main line energized.

2. Install lightning arrester and cut out on a distribution system.

3. Install a single-phase reclosure.

4. Make the proper connections on a 3-phase bank.

5. State proper ground clearance for wires over a highway, bodies of water, driveway, or RR crossing.

6. Change out various line equipment (poles, x-arms, transformers, etc.) using bucket truck on energized line.

7. Trouble shoot on both overhead and underground lines.

8. Skills Climbing poles.

Number of hours climbed.

9. Ability to follow directions.

10. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Name

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 6 PDF

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Read distribution maps.

2. Properly supervise the loading of poles on a pole trailer and secure the poles & attach flags.

3. Plumb and line up a pole prior to backfilling and tamping.

4. At a substation, identify the following:. transmission side / power transformers / P.T.’s / regulators / reclosures and distribution side

5. Demonstrates proper procedure for conducting tail-gate job briefing when asked by crew-leader.

6. Proper procedure to use when replacing a phase wire that has burned down in mid-span on 3-phase line.

7. De-energize a single-phase line at an oil circuit breaker.

8. Demonstrate the ability to read and understand a staking sheet.

9. Make primary cable terminals for underground or pad mount.

10. Explain the function of a current limiting fuse.

11. Demonstrate proper use of Underground fault-finding equipment.

12. A member is complaining about lights going bright and dim. Explain how you would address the problem.

13. Demonstrate the proper method of recording important information. (transformer serial numbers etc.).

14. The voltage at the meter reads 130/260. Explain what could cause this high voltage.

15. Explain where and how C.T.’s are used.

16. Skills Climbing poles.

Number of hours climbed.

17. Ability to follow directions.

18. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Name

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 7 PDF

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Explain the method of pulling in new wires on reconductoring projects.

2. Explain what precautions should be taken stringing wire parallel to or in the vicinity of a high voltage line.

3. Check the polarity of transformers used in a 3-phase 4-wire 120/240 power bank

4. Explain how to change a closed delta transformer bank to a 3-phase open delta.

5. Assist in installing a single-phase step-voltage regulator on a pole.

6. Explain the correct procedure of removing a step-voltage regulator from service.

7. Use a phase indicator or tester to check out the phases of a distribution primary circuit at a point that is normally open to determine which wires can be connected.

8. Demonstrate the proper method of Trouble shooting on overhead and underground lines.

9. Demonstrate proper method of installing or removing 3-phase metering equipment.

10. Explain method for testing a suspected faulty transformer.

11. Help to train other workers with less experience on the crew.

12. Skills Climbing poles.

Number of hours climbed.

13 Ability to follow directions.

14. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Name

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 8 PDF

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Describe the function of a switchyard.

2. Describe the function of a substation.

3. Identify the basic equipment found in both a switchyard and a substation.

4. List items typically checked during a routine inspection of a substation and a switchyard.

5. List & identify some of the safety hazards that may be found in a substation or switchyard.

6. Explain the different types of fall arrest equipment used in substation work.

7. Identify the different types of personal protective equipment needed when working in a substation or switchyard.

8. Explain how to calculate the Working Load Limit (WLL) of a rope.

9. Describe the three common configurations that a sling may be used. Explain how, according to the name tag, the working Load Limit (WLL) can vary depending on the configuration.

10. Using a company substation one-line diagram, explain how power flows through the station.

11. Identify and list the steps for de-energizing, isolating, and grounding a power transformer.

12. Explain the safety hazards of open circuiting a Current Transformer (CT) under load.

13. List the steps required to (check-out) a voltage detector. Explain why it is necessary to test the detector before each use.

14. Identify and explain the basic steps in making equipment “electrically” safe to work on.

15. Explain the reason for tagging equipment.

16. Name the different types of fire extinguishers & types of fires they are to be used on.

17. Explain the purpose of the grounding grid in a substation.

18. Identify any special precautions necessary when working with capacitors or capacitor banks.

19. Identify chemical hazards that may exist in substations and switchyards.

20. Describe the general procedures for responding to an injury at work.

21. Explain the difference between a ground switch and a temporary ground.

22. Describe the proper procedure for safely installing a temporary ground.

23. Inspect and demonstrate properly setting up both a step ladder and an extension ladder.

24. Describe how circuit breakers, reclosers and fuses can operate in an electrical system to reduce the dangers created by faults.

25. Ability to follow directions.

26. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 1

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. List the main parts of a power transformer.

2. Explain how a power transformer fulfills the requirements for electromagnetic induction.

3. Recognize and identify power transformers.

4. Recognize, identify and discuss different types of current transformers.

5. Describe the purpose of power transformer cooling systems.

6. Recognize and identify a self-cooled power transformer, and briefly describe how the cooling systems works.

7. Recognize and identify a self-cooled, forced air-cooled, power transformer and describe how cooling system works.

8. Identify and describe the functions of temperature gauges and level gauges on a power transformer.

9. State the purpose of a power transformer sealing system.

10. Recognize and identify a gas-sealed power transformer, and briefly describe how the sealing system works.

11. Recognize and identify a conservatory-type sealed power transformer and briefly describe how the sealing system works.

12. List the typical items checked during an inspection of a transformer’s exterior condition.

13. List the typical items checked during an inspection of a transformer’s sealing system.

14. List the typical items checked during an inspection of a transformer’s cooling system.

15. Explain what a power transformer tap changer is.

16. State the function of a no-load tap changer and describe how it works.

17. State the function of a load tap changer (LTC) and describe how it works.

18. Explain the importance of an annual oil testing program and dissolved gas analysis testing.

19. Explain the principle of turns ratio testing.

20. Identify the components of a typical turns ratio test set and describe the function of each component.

21. Identify the connections for testing the turns ratio of a delta wye power transformer.

22. Describe the safety precautions that are commonly observed during turns ratio testing.

23. State the function of transformer oil.

24. Identify common factors that cause transformer oil to deteriorate.

25. Describe the purpose of the dielectric breakdown strength test (D1816).

26. Ability to follow directions.

27. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 2

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Explain the routine tests that should be performed on a new power transformer before putting the unit in service.

2. Explain the tests used to determine if the moisture level inside transformer’s solid insulation systems is within accepted limits, or vacuum drying should be performed.

3. Explain how to check moisture level in a power transformer using a dielectric oil test set.

4. Explain how to process transformer oil using filter press equipment.

5. Explain the internal parts found in a voltage regulator and describe their function.

6. Explain the basic settings on a control panel for a voltage regulator.

7. Explain how to put a voltage regulator in service and how to safely take it out of service.

8. Explain how to make sure a regulator is in “neutral” position.

9. Explain how to perform an inspection on a voltage regulator.

10. Explain the difference between bracket grounding and equipotential grounding.

11. On a de-energized system and under supervision demonstrate installation and removal of personal protective grounds.

12. Demonstrate how to correctly inspect personal protective grounds.

13. Explain step and touch potential.

14. What test should be performed on current transformers during acceptance testing?

15. Explain how to demagnetize a current transformer.

16. Explain/demonstrate how to read the nameplate data on a current transformer.

17. Demonstrate how to inspect and clean a live-line switch stick.

18. On a de-energized substation and under supervision: open and close a group operated air break switch.

19. On a de-energized substation and under supervision: open and close regulator switches.

20. On a de-energized substation and under supervision: open and close feeder recloser source, load and transfer bus disconnect switches.

21. Ability to follow directions.

22. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 3

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Pick one of your utility’s substations: identify the type of interrupter mediums for the high side circuit breaker or circuit switcher (oil, vacuum, air, gas).

2. Locate the nameplate for the circuit breaker or circuit switcher and explain the information contained on the nameplate.

3. Describe/Explain the checks performed (on a monthly basis) for the circuit breaker or circuit switcher.

4. Read the manufacturer’s manual on the operator and explain how the operator opens and closes the circuit breaker or circuit switcher.

5. For the circuit breaker or circuit switcher identify the type of operator used to control the breaker (solenoid, air, hydraulic).

6. Locate the customer voltage and control wiring inputs to the control. Determine and describe the voltage levels used to operate the control.

7. Explain/describe the monthly checks that should be performed on the operator.

8. Read the manufacturer’s maintenance manuals for the circuit breaker or circuit switcher and control. List the required maintenance that should be performed on a periodic basis.

9. Locate the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC) for the substation and read the plan. Explain the SPCC Plan steps to follow for both a major and minor oil spill in the substation.

10. Explain the steps needed at your utility to get a clearance on the high side circuit breaker or switcher with the system operator.

11. Ability to follow directions.

12. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 4

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Describe safety precautions applicable to working with insulating (SF6) gas and sealing nitrogen gas.

2. Describe safety precautions applicable to working with battery banks.

3. Describe your utility’s general procedure for reporting accidents.

4. Demonstrate how to safely perform DC battery inspections.

5. Describe how and why substation batteries are put on “equalize” charge. Typically for how long?

6. Demonstrate how to safely check a substation battery charger.

7. Explain how substation battery chargers supply power to DC loads.

8. Demonstrate how batteries are put on “float” charge.

9. Explain why unintentional grounds on the DC positive and/or negative supply conductors must be located and cleared.

10. Using substation control wiring diagrams, demonstrate how to trace a wiring circuit and identifying terminal points on devices.

11. Using the power transformer nameplate: identify where the BCTs are terminated in the power transformer control cabinet.

12. Locate and describe the control circuits in the transformer cabinet (fan controls, indicating dial, contact points, etc.).

13. Identify the types of CTs and PTs used in relaying and metering systems.

14. What types of tests should be performed on CTs and PTs.

15. Explain what “Minimum Approach Distance” is for energized conductors and equipment.

16. Explain why arcs, faults, and the “invisibility” of electricity can be dangerous.

17. Explain why testing for “dead” is important.

18. Describe how noisy testers, statiscopes, and phasing test sets are used to test de- energized circuits.

19. Explain what “protective grounding” is.

20. Describe how switching, tagging, testing for “dead”, and grounding can make lines safe for maintenance.

21. Name the Minimum Approach Distance’s for phase-to-phase voltages: 15kV, 25kV, 38kV, 69kV, 115kV, 138kV and 230kV.

22. Ability to follow directions.

23. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 5

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Explain how to test a capacitor unit prior to installation.

2. For a substation capacitor bank, explain how to safely put it in service..

3. For a substation capacitor bank, explain how to safely take it out of service.

4. For a substation capacitor bank, explain how to perform periodic inspections.

5. What PPE should be used when working with capacitors?

6. What types of lightning/surge protection are used in a typical substation?

7. Why are lightning arresters used?

8. What inspection methods are used for checking lightning arresters?

9. Describe how you size a station lightning arrester?

10. Why are solid grounds important for lightning arresters?

11. What PPE should be used when working with lightning arresters?

12. Pick one of your utility’s substations: locate the basic wiring diagrams for relay control systems and explain what relays are used and trace the wiring diagrams.

13. Why is wiring labeling so important?

14. How often should control wiring be checked?

15. What PPE should be used when working with control wiring?

16. Ability to follow directions.

17. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 6

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Describe the various forms of communication used by your utility.

2. Describe the transmission medium used by your utility to transmit data.

3. The role of a Substation Technician concerning the utilities communications systems varies with each utility and its size. Describe your role with your utilities communications systems.

4. Research within your utility and learn what various aluminum conductors are typically used for transmission lines and main distribution feeders. List the conductors and their industry alloy name.

5. Describe what will happen if an open circuit occurs in the secondary circuit of a current transformer (CT).

6. Name three of the accepted industry standard communication protocols. Which communication protocol is used by your utility?

7. List the three general relay technologies developed over the years to implement system protection functions.

8. Review your utility’s FR clothing requirements and guidelines. Write down what rating of PPE cal/cm² your utility requires its field employees to wear.

9. Obtain a single line diagram of a circuit or substation and write a switching tag to clear a piece of equipment or line section. (Use one of your utilities routine tags for this exercise).

10. Contact your engineering department and ask them to explain how they evaluate load transfers when approving clearances.

11. Review a switch manufacturer’s catalog and confirm the switch interrupting capacities for various types of switches. List the switch types by Catalog Number, Voltage Rating. Current Carrying Capacity and Interrupting Capacity.

12. Ability to follow directions.

13. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 7

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. Pick one of your utility’s substations: List the installed devices that automate its operation and explain how the automation is being used.

2. Describe the procedure to test current and potential transformers located both off and on equipment.

3. Explain the importance of substation one-lines, equipment manuals, and wiring diagrams.

4. Pick one of your substations: List (using IEEE Standard C37.2-2008 Device Numbers) the types of relays used in the protection scheme and explain the function of each relay.

5. For a power transformer: List the tests normally performed to ensure the integrity of the transformer and describe the purpose of each test.

6. For a circuit breaker: List the tests normally performed to ensure the integrity of the breaker and describe the purpose of each test.

7. OSHA 1910.269 (O) - Testing and Test Facilities. This OSHA regulation should be reviewed by everyone involved in performing electrical tests on substation equipment. This regulation deals with work practices to be used during the testing of substation equipment using high-voltage or high-power equipment. List at least 5 of the work practices in the regulation.

8. Obtain a copy of a substation power transformer nameplate. Make sure that the power transformer has both a non-load tap changer and a load-tap changer. Demonstrate your knowledge by explaining all the information contained on the nameplate.

9. Explain what transformer impedance is. Explain why transformer impedance is important.

10. Based on the CT construction, two types of CT’s can be identified. What are the two types of CT?

11. Ability to follow directions.

12. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

Supervisor's Signature

Date

If signing electronically, type / s / and your full name as your signature.

Print Completed Form

Step 8

Your Employer

IMPORTANT: Make sure this field is correct!

Apprentice Name

Rate Competencies/Skills

Use the dropdowns and select an appropriate rating that best describes the apprentice's performance.

1. What is an amp/ampere?

2. What is a volt a measurement of?

3. Resistance is measured in ___.

4. Write the equation for Ohm’s Law.

5. Power is the product of ___ and ___.

6. Explain frequency and how it is measured?

7. What is the frequency for North America?

8. When AC voltage and current rise and fall at the same time, they are said to be ___.

9. When AC voltage and current rise and fall at different times, they are said to be ___.

10. Explain the relationship of true power, apparent power and reactive power.

11. Power factor is the ration of ___ to ___.

12. Explain why a poor power factor is bad for utilities.

13. What are the interconnected transmission systems referred to?

14. What ate the four main elements of an electric system?

15. Explain the “Battle of the Currents”.

16. List three types of companies responsible for the distribution of power to the consumer.

17. You should always treat the customer or member with ___ and ___.

18. List several ways a customer’s or member’s bill may be high.

19. Explain the term “Energy Diversion”.

20. Draw the Ohm’s Law Triangle.

21. Draw the Power Triangle.

22. Ability to follow directions.

23. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

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1. Explain the method of “Bracket Grounding”.

2. Explain the method of “Equipotential Grounding”.

3. List the five-step grounding process.

4. Explain fault current.

5. Explain the possible sources of electric energy with regards to grounding.

6. Explain the term “Clearance”.

7. What is a clearance point?

8. Explain the two factors regarding jurisdiction.

9. Define “Operations Center”.

10. Review the Operations Center log at your utility and discuss the items logged. Discuss possible changes or additions that may be beneficial.

11. Discuss the role of the system operator at your utility and their responsibilities.

12. Explain operating errors and discuss how they are handled at your utility.

13. Explain the four main functions of a substation.

14. Explain the four main types of substations.

15. Explain the purpose of a potential transformer.

16. Explain the purpose of a circuit switcher.

17. Explain the purpose of disconnects.

18. Explain how voltage control is handled in a substation.

19. Explain the purpose of current transformers.

20. Understands the difference between the main bus and transfer bus.

21. Explain the ground grid of a substation.

22. What main equipment is found in the control house?

23. Explain the single-line diagram and what it represents.

24. Review some or all your utilities single-line diagrams and understand the flow of power through the substation, and the equipment found in each. (Supervisor’s discretion)

25. Explain the role of relays in your substation.

26. Demonstrate knowledge and ability working with your utilities SCADA system.

22. What main equipment is found in the control house?

27. Review the Terms and Conditions of your utility with your supervisor.

28. Ability to follow directions.

29. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. Explain inductive loads on a circuit.

2. Explain capacitive loads on a circuit.

3. Explain how VAR flow is determined and how it relates to power factor.

4. What are the three fundamental control requirements for a properly designed and operated power system?

5. Explain “Power Wheeling”.

6. Explain the purpose of a load tap changer (LTC) and a regulator.

7. List the five steps that should be followed to safely bypass a voltage regulator.

8. What FERC? How do they relate to the power industry?

9. Explain what system losses are.

10. What are the typical losses for a rural distribution system?

11. Explain several ways to minimize system losses.

12. Review a single line diagram (supervisor selected) and show the power flow through the substation and identify the equipment that it flows through, including it’s purpose.

13. Demonstrate your ability to read a distribution map, showing lines, poles, switches, apparatus, protection equipment and consumers.

14. Demonstrate your familiarity with device plant numbering using the maps available.

15. Explain RUS Specifications: their use, what they are based on, etc.

16. Explain the purpose of disconnects and switches.

17. Locate disconnects and switches on a single line diagram.

18. Ability to follow directions.

19. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. List the four common devices that perform the basic function of a circuit breaker.

2. Where is information about and ratings of a circuit breaker found?

3. Name the four key design parameters of a circuit breaker.

4. Locate a circuit breaker on a single line diagram.

5. Describe the basic applications of circuit breakers.

6. What are the four main types of circuit breakers? Discuss your utilities use of each.

7. Explain the fundamental job of a station transformer.

8. What is the difference between a LTC and voltage regulator?

9. Describe the two applications of a voltage regulator in a substation. What does your utility do?

10. Where can pertinent information about a transformer be found?

11. Review a nameplate from one of your utilities transformers and discuss it’s information. i.e. voltages, weight, oil cooling, tap settings, etc.

12. Explain the different methods of colling the oil in a transformer.

13. Discuss the types of oil preservation systems your utility has.

14. Explain the purpose of a surge arrestor.

15. Locate surge arrestors on one of your utilizes single line diagrams and describe what they are protecting.

16. Explain what the term “BIL” means.

17. Explain the purpose of a capacitor.

18. Discuss whether your utility has capacitors and their use if so.

19. Ability to follow directions.

20. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. Define FERC.

2. Define NERC.

3. Explain the jurisdiction you have as a system operator at your utility.

4. Explain your duties and responsibilities as a system operator at your utility.

5. Demonstrate your ability to manage a small outage of 1-20 consumers.

6. Demonstrate your ability to manage a large outage of 100+ consumers.

7. Demonstrate your ability to perform clearance and switching orders.

8. Demonstrate your ability to operate a breaker remotely, open and close.

9. Demonstrate your ability to operate a breaker remotely, Hot Line Tag (HLT) on and off.

10. Demonstrate your ability to operate a breaker remotely, Non-reclose on and off.

11. Demonstrate your ability to operate a breaker remotely, Cold Load Pick-up on and off.

12. Explain your utility’s process to write and approve switching orders.

13. Write a set of switching orders for removal and replacement of a voltage regulator on your system.

14. Write a set of switching orders for transferring load in a substation for maintenance on a power transformer.

15. Explain the difference between Non-reclose and Hot Line Tag.

16. Explain how your utility’s SCADA system and substation communicate.

17. Demonstrate your ability to dispatch a lineman to an outage, using the utility’s radio system.

18. Demonstrate your ability to dispatch a lineman to an outage, using the utility’s mobile data system if applicable.

19. Explain the purpose of a substation DC system.

20. Explain what data is available on your utility’s SCADA system regarding the DC system. i.e., voltages, alarms, etc.

21. Discuss the voltages and locations of your utility’s DC systems. (stations, communication sites, UPS, etc.)

22. Ability to follow directions.

23. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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Your Employer

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1. Understand and explain the data displayed on SCADA. (Type of data [current], what it pertains to [bus or feeder], where is it sourced [regulator or breaker}.

2. Explain the benefits of automation, consumer and utility.

3. What systems within your utility are automated?

4. Identify the key components and equipment used in your utility for SCADA purposes.

5. Explain how your utility’s AMR/AMI system helps your job as a system operator.

6. Explain the different fault classifications.

7. Explain the different fault types.

8. Explain the two basic rules of coordination.

9. Describe the types of equipment your utility uses for protection in the substation and downline.

10. Understand who and how service reliability of your utility is reported and to whom.

11. Explain your utility’s emergency communication procedure.

12. Explain your utility’s emergency communication procedure.

13. Customer complaint possible cause: Both bright and dim lights.

14. Customer complaint possible cause: Both bright and dim lights.

15. Customer complaint possible cause: Lights partially out.

16. Customer complaint possible cause: Lights completely out.

17. Customer complaint possible cause: Low voltage-dim lights.

18. Customer complaint possible cause: High voltage-bright lights.

19. Explain how radio/tv interference is handled at your utility.

20. Explain the purpose of relays.

21. Explain the difference between overcurrent and differential relays.

22. Review your utility’s protection drawings and describe the components shown and what zones they are protecting.

23. Discuss several other relay schemes used in your utility’s substations. (voltage, frequency, sudden pressure, etc.)

24. Ability to follow directions.

25. Positive attitude toward work and others.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. Describe the “Right-Hand Rule”.

2. What is motor action?

3. Motor Action is applied in a meter by what two elements?

4. List three basic guidelines that should be followed to ensure safety.

5. How do you check rubber gloves for leaks?

6. What three safety devices should be used while replacing a meter?

7. Before installing a meter, in what position should the main panel be in?

8. Recognize and identify the basic equipment found in a substation.

9. Identify some of the safety hazards in a substation.

10. What is “Energy Diversion”?

11. List four means of bypassing a meter.

12. List three devices to secure motor equipment.

13. Define “Demand” as used in electricity metering.

14. List three types of Demand meters.

15. What is the most common demand measurement?

16. Identify several early types of watt-hour meters.

17. Identify some of the information on a watt-hour meter nameplate.

18. Explain the function of an instrument transformer.

19. What are the two main classifications of instrument transformers?

20. List six basic parts of a watt-hour meter.

21. Eddy current fluxes are produced from which three Sources? List the four fluxes that interact to drive a meter disk.

22. What is the design speed (RPH) of most motor meters?

23. List four compensations built into watt-hour meter instruments.

24. List three, watt-hour meter adjustments.

25. What are the two poles of a magnet?

26. In a magnet, which poles attract, and which poles repel?

27. What type of magnet is it when iron is wrapped in current carrying wire?

28. What is induction?

29. Ability to follow directions.

30. Positive attitude toward work and others.

31. Review MTAP #1 Curriculum practice questions.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. Solve 104 x 103 =

2. Convert .958 to a percentage.

3. Convert 5% to a fraction and decimal.

4. Solve the equation 2x + 4x -10.

5. Average these numbers: 100, 230, 320, 450, 500

6. What is trigonometry?

7. What does the ratio of a current transformer describe?

8. What non-electrical checks should be made at the meter installation before work begins?.

9. What non-electrical checks should be made inside the meter box or base?

10. What non-electrical checks should be made inside a transformer cabinet?

11. What are the two types of energy diversion discussed?

12. Perform an inspection of the employee’s work vehicle for first aid kit, fire extinguisher and housekeeping.

13. Ability to work with others.

14. Ability to follow directions.

15. Positive attitude toward work and others.

16. Review MTAP #2 curriculum practical questions.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. What two values do phasors represent?

2. A phasor with an open arrow represents?

3. A phasor with a solid arrow represents?

4. Inductance affects what in a circuit?

5. Capacitance affects what in a circuit?

6. What causes inductive reactance in a circuit?

7. What causes capacitive reactance in a circuit?

8. What is Power factor?

9. What does the sine of an angle represent?

10. What does the cosine of an angle represent?

11. What does the tangent of an angle represent?

12. What is the Pythagorean Theorem?

13. What is Active Power and its unit of measure?

14. What is Apparent Power and its unit of measure?

15. What is Reactive Power and its unit of measure?

16. Draw how the coils are connected in a “WYE” system.

17. Draw how the coils are connected in a “Delta” system.

18. Describe the comparison method of meter testing.

19. What meter test combines all elements in a polyphase meter?

20. What is the initial test of a meter called?

21. What is the final test of a meter called?

22. How do you perform a creep test on a meter?

23. Explain the AEP test barcode and what information is contained in it.

24. Wire a single-phase transformer rater meter installation.

25. Ability to work with others.

26. Ability to follow directions.

27. Positive attitude toward work and others.

28. Review MTAP #3 curriculum practical questions.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. What do E, I, and R stand for in equations?

2. What is Ohm’s Law in equation form?

3. Define power.

4. Define energy.

5. What is the equation to calculate power in an DC circuit?

6. What is the equation to calculate power in an AC circuit?

7. What is the function of a transformer?

8. What is the term that describes how energy is transferred from the primary coil to the secondary coil of a transformer?

9. What is the ratio of a transformer?

10. Demonstrate knowledge of calculating the billing or meter multiplier using CT’s and PT’s used by your utility.

11. What is the purpose of a voltage regulator?

12. What are the three main components of a voltage regulator?

13. Explain how a capacitor is taken out of service.

14. What is done to bypass a voltage regulator?

15. Wire a polyphase meter installation.

16. Ability to work with others.

17. Ability to follow directions.

18. Positive attitude toward work and others.

19. Review MTAP #4 curriculum practical questions.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. Where should rubber gloves be stored?

2. Demonstrate testing grubber glovers before use.

3. Should rubber protective equipment be cleaned?

4. What are two advantages of underground systems?

5. What are two disadvantages of underground systems?

6. Demonstrate familiarity with reading system maps.

7. Describe how a sectionalizer works.

8. Why are capacitors used?

9. What is meant by de-energizing a line?

10. Explain when your utility requires de-energizing a line regarding metering.

11. Wire a meter on a padmounted transformer.

12. Perform an inspection of the employee’s work vehicle for first aid kit, fire extinguisher and housekeeping.

13. Inspect employees PPE.

14. Ability to work with others.

15. Ability to follow directions.

16. Positive attitude toward work and others.

17. Review MTAP #5 curriculum practical questions.

Comments/ Remarks

I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. List the four guidelines used to make any meter job as safe as possible.

2. What is the load on an instrument transformer called?

3. List the types of CT’s used in your utility and explain their uses.

4. State Blondel’s Theorem.

5. What is the effect of opening a secondary of a current transformer under load?

6. Demonstrate the ability to read a CT’s nameplate.

7. Demonstrate the ability to read a VT’s nameplate.

8. Explain why the polarity of CT and VT are important.

9. What is a one-line diagram?

10. Name several energy sources.

11. Demonstrate how instrument transformers are sized for a job.

12. When are instrument transformers used for your utility?

13. What does the term “dot to the pot” mean?

14. Ability to work with others.

15. Ability to follow directions.

16. Positive attitude toward work and others.

17. Review MTAP #6 curriculum practical questions.

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I find this apprentice competent in the skills listed above and ready to advance to the next level.

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1. What does a cumulative demand register display?

2. What are the principal parts of an electro-mechanical meter?

3. What is the difference between an electro-mechanical and solid-state meter?

4. What are three adjustments on an electro-mechanical meter?

5. Review common metering terms in 7.2 of the NLC curriculum.

6. What is Ke of a solid-state meter?

7. What are the two types of motor controllers?

8. Review electrical safety terms in 7.4 of the NLC curriculum.

9. Explain “demand”.

10. Explain what is found on a meter nameplate.

11. Why is demand billed?

12. Why is kVAR billed?

13. Review a site of primary metering.

14. Ability to work with others.

15. Ability to follow directions.

16. Positive attitude toward work and others.

17. Review MTAP #7 curriculum practical questions.

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1. Numerate the steps in Shop Test Procedures for single-phase meters.

2. List five types of meter testing.

3. List the typical sequence of operation in testing a three-phase meter.

4. What two things are checked when testing the demand register.

5. Demonstrate a knowledge of meter programs used at the utility.

6. Demonstrate a knowledge of the quantities billed by the utility.

7. What demand interval is billed at your utility?

8. Demonstrate their ability to field test single-phase and polyphase meters in the field.

9. Demonstrate their ability to shop test single-phase and polyphase meters.

10. What mode is the meter placed in when testing solid-state meters?

11. Review any polyphase kVAR metering using two meters. (if any on your system)

12. Demonstrate understanding of totalizing meters on the utility’s system.

13. Demonstrate knowledge of pulse meters on the utility’s system..

14. Ability to work with others.

15. Ability to follow directions.

16. Positive attitude toward work and others.

17. Review MTAP #8 curriculum practical questions.

Comments/ Remarks

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Step 8

Lineman Job Competency Forms

Apprentice Substation Technician Job Competency / Demonstration Forms

Apprentice System Operator Job Competency / Demonstration Forms

Apprentice Meter Technician Job Competency / Demonstration Forms

Final Evaluation & Employee Job Evaluation Form