A lineman from the V.I. Water and Power Authority was injured Friday when he came into contact with a live wire, interim Executive Director Julio A. Rhymer Sr. reported.
The lineman, whose name was not released by the utility, was part of a line department crew transfering primary electric lines from an old pole to a newly planted pole in Estate St. Peter. The work was part of a scheduled electric service interruption on a portion of Feeder 7A. During the work he apparently came in contact with an energized line, the WAPA news release said.
“Despite our best efforts to protect the men and women of WAPA who work at our power plants and on the electrical transmission and distribution systems, accidents such as today’s are stark reminders of the dangers inherent in the jobs performed by our dedicated team each day,” Rhymer said. “I am grateful for the efficient medical care that was rendered at the scene by EMS and the medical attention he has received at the Roy L. Schneider Hospital since being transported there by ambulance shortly after the accident. The lineman suffered extensive injuries to both of his hands. I ask the community and the WAPA family to join me in offering prayers for his speedy recovery."
An internal investigation by WAPA’s Safety Department continued late Friday into the circumstances that led to the accident.
