Transmission towers or poles have a unique identification number plate. In instances where each side of the transmission tower or pole is supplied by a different distribution network operator (DNO), there will be two identification number plates.
Figure: Photograph of an identification number plate on transmission tower
Colour bandsThere is a colour-coding scheme for transmission towers.
Figure: Diagram showing an example of a colour band for a 132kV tower, courtesy of UK Power Networks
Contacting the electricity company
If a transmission tower is operated by two companies, details from both plates should be passed to the fire control room. Contacting the wrong company may result in delays, as some work can only be carried out once the correct designated competent person has issued a permit-to-work.
The following information should be given to fire control rooms and passed to the correct distribution network operator(s) (DNO) or transmission operator(s) (TO):
Exact address
Identification numbers and colour band information
Physical description of the site
Distances from live equipment
Whether the incident is at ground level, above or below ground level
Weather conditions on site
Current plan of action required
Any time limits or other operational pressures
Any other relevant information
Yellow ‘danger of death’ signs should be present on all high-voltage transmission towers or poles. They may sometimes be displayed on low-voltage poles.
Strategic Actions
Fire and rescue services should
Liaise with local distribution network operators (DNOs) and transmission operators (TOs) to maintain up-to-date emergency contact details in their fire control
Consider adopting memoranda of understanding with their electricity suppliers, to improve joint working at emergency incidents
Tactical Actions
Incident commanders should
Communicate the identification number(s) of any transmission tower or pole to the relevant distribution network operator (DNO) or transmission operator (TO)
Implement high-voltage safe system of work if a yellow ‘danger of death’ sign present