The Wavelength symbolizes the culture, risk, adrenaline rush and ultimate sacrifice made by many, while the flipped lightning bolt points upward to pay tribute to the fallen men and women who built and maintained our power grid. Our goal is for people, in and outside the trade to recognize the upside down lightning bolt, with or without our logo and to associate it with the daring men and woman who died keeping our lights on.
life·line
-a thing on which someone or something depends or which provides a means of escape from a difficult situation.
As an IBEW Apprentice Lineman, I’m reminded daily of the hazards and efforts required in the Lineman’s profession. Kayla and I wanted to create something unique and interesting that not only represents the workers but the worker’s family waiting at home for their safe return. While we certainly enjoy a good laugh, whether it be a play on words, a funny pun, or a saying from the trade. Our focus is on the men and women that died building our power grid. By creating line work apparel and other products that serve as reminders to the present workforce or those that honor the fallen, we can help ensure they are not forgotten and that our policies and procedures written with their blood, will allow us to go home the way we left for work!
The fatality rate for lineworkers is nearly 400% higher than the national average for all occupations. Over the past decade, an average of 26 linemen lose their lives every year due to fatal work injuries. Linemen experience a non-fatal injury rate of 104.6 per 10,000 full-time workers.
The lineman occupation began with the widespread use of the telegraph in the 1840s. Telegraph lines could be strung on trees, but wooden poles were quickly adopted as the method of choice. The term 'lineman' was used for those who set wooden poles and strung the wire.
CLICK ON THE IMAGE, for for a great read and intriguing information regarding the Lineman Trade.“The American Lineman: The Evolution of The Lineman’s Pole Climber”.