As part of the Power division at IES Utility Solutions, our Overhead Line services cover the full asset lifecycle, from design and construction through to ongoing maintenance. We work across voltages from LV to 400kV, delivering solutions on both wooden pole and steel lattice tower systems.
Our teams help ensure reliable power transmission across all terrains, supporting the resilience and performance of the electricity network.
We caught up with Extra Mile Awards nominee Colin Donnelly, one of our Project Managers within the Power division who looks after some of the maintenance portfolio projects.
“Within our maintenance portfolio, the hazard rectification and defects programme plays a critical role in maintaining the safety, reliability and regulatory compliance of the overhead line network on behalf of Scottish Power Energy Networks across North Wales and the Dee Valley.”
The programme includes the installation and replacement of key safety and hazard signs such as Danger of Death (DOD) plates, anti-climbing devices (ACDs), Cable Guards and general compliance works across the network.
Colin said, “We currently, 20–30 dedicated teams are deployed on the ground each day, to deliver the programme.” This results in a consistently high weekly output, driven by experienced operatives working efficiently to identify, manage and clear safety‑critical concerns in a timely manner.
As with all of our projects at IES the hazards and defect rectification works are all carefully planned and issued to teams. Responsible for the day-to-day running of the programme, Colin coordinate multiple teams across North Wales and the Dee Valley, making sure everyone is deployed correctly each morning with the right work packs, access, and information to carry out the works safely and efficiently.
“I oversee the delivery side of the operation, ensuring works are planned properly, completed to the required standard, and aligned with programme targets. Throughout the day, I monitor team outputs, track progress, and adjust resources where needed to keep everything moving.”
Quality is a big focus, every defect is subject to a robust quality assurance process. “We review before‑and‑after photos captured for each defect to confirm that all works meet the required technical specifications and safety standards. This approach provides full visibility and traceability, giving confidence that compliance has been achieved at each individual defect location.” said Colin.
If the teams on site come across any operational issues on site, Colin is there to support the teams ensuring that the communication is clear between those in the field, back office and the client.
Once teams complete works on site, and Colin and the team review the activity in real time and ensuring the correct costings are accurately applied. The works are then seamlessly handed over to the IES commercial team for final validation and payment, maintaining control and compliance at every stage of the process.
“As we now start to gear up for our move into Scotland, my focus is on making sure these same standards, processes, and communication channels are in place from day one to support a smooth and professional rollout.”
Combining the expertise of our skilled operatives on site with thorough planning and oversight from our project management and office teams, IES is able to identify, prioritise and resolve hazards efficiently, preventing defects from escalating and ensuring network safety is maintained.
We are looking forward to catching up with Colin and the team later on this year as the programme expands up North.
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