Barehand Access Methods with Dielectric Rope for Transmission Line Maintenance

New Barry Product & Service

Barry Cordage Ltd. has recently developed systems, methods, and training programs for transmission line maintenance crews to perform work at heights using rope access techniques with dielectric ropes for barehand methods in energized environments.

With decades of R&D, design, and manufacturing experience in the utilities industry, Barry assists in developing live-line products, optimizing work methods, and ensuring safety with state-of-the-art products.

What is Dielectric Rope Access?

Dielectric rope access involves raising a worker to a working position at heights using insulating rope. The worker is always connected to a secondary lifeline system, which acts as a fall protection backup for redundancy.

Dielectric Rope Access Barehand Method

When used for energized barehand methods, the worker is at the same electrical potential as the transmission line while wearing a conductive suit, and the ropes are energized. Conventional ropes, such as polyester kernmantle ropes, are highly conductive under humidity. The new dielectric rope access systems developed by Barry feature insulating ropes compliant with ASTM F1701 and IEC 62192 standards. These ropes offer arc flash resistance, ozone resistance, and abrasion resistance, making them ideal for energized environments.

Why Use Dielectric Rope Access?

Dielectric rope access enables utilities and contractors to perform live-line maintenance in remote locations without requiring roads or heavy equipment. While not as fast as helicopter methods, it offers advantages such as lower costs, reduced environmental impact, and the ability to work in areas with difficult terrain. This method minimizes outages, logistics, and environmental concerns while increasing efficiency and safety.

Compared to other live-line methods, dielectric rope access systems have lower acquisition, maintenance, and operational costs. These systems allow linemen to perform work safely and efficiently, improving reliability and reducing costs for utility customers.

Key Benefits:

• Effective in remote locations with difficult terrain
• Requires minimal equipment
• Reduces operating and logistical costs
• Minimizes environmental impact
• Allows safe work without service interruption
• Increases efficiency, completing more work safely in less time
• Provides reliable insulation for live-line tasks

For more information on engineering support and consulting services for live-line work methods, please contact us.