Key EHSQ Patrolling & Prevention Strategies

 High-tension (HT) transmission line patrolling to mitigate monkey-related fatalities is a critical environmental, health, safety, and quality (EHSQ) initiative. Monkeys, especially in forested or semi-urban areas, are attracted to poles and often bridge the gap between phases or between a phase and a grounded component, resulting in fatal electrocution, line faults, and outages. 

Key EHSQ Patrolling & Prevention Strategies

Identify Hotspots: Patrol crews must identify high-risk sections where monkeys are frequent, particularly where power lines are close to treetops.

Install Physical Barriers: Install anti-climbing devices like conical guards or metal sheeting around the base of poles to prevent monkeys from climbing.

Insulate Conductors: At identified hotspots, wrap exposed wires, transformers, and switches with insulating materials like silicone covers, PVC, or rubber shrouds to prevent contact.

Tree Trimming: Trim branches that overhang or are close to power lines, which act as bridges for monkeys to reach the lines.

Install Wildlife Deterrents: Utilize non-harmful,, auditory or visual deterrents (e.g., predator effigies) to keep wildlife away from critical infrastructure.

Underground Cabling: In high-risk, sensitive forest areas, replacing overhead lines with underground cables is the most effective, albeit expensive, long-term solutio

Emergency Response and Maintenance

Immediate Reporting: Patrolling staff should promptly report any sightings of monkeys on poles, carcasses, or injuries to local wildlife authorities.

Safe Rescue Procedures: Establish protocols for rescue teams to safely handle electrocuted animals, often requiring the temporary de-energizing of lines.

Routine Inspections: Regular inspections must include checking for damaged insulators, nests, or carcasses, which indicate high activity zones. 

EHSQ Documentation

Maintain accurate records of monkey electrocutions to analyze trends and identify areas requiring retrofitting.

Implement a "before and after" monitoring system to evaluate the effectiveness of installed insulators and barriers.

Using specialized silicone line covers, which can withstand high voltages and harsh weather, has been highly effective in protecting wildlife and reducing power outages caused by animal contacts.