International Student in Huaian Experiences the Scorching “Trial by Fire” of Live-Line Operations

Since early July, Jiangsu Province has been gripped by an intense heatwave. Recently, at a live-line work site on the 10kV Beiyang Line in Huaian, an unusual figure caught people’s attention—Franck, an international student from Huaiyin Institute of Technology, joined power line workers to face the scorching “trial by fire” of live-line operations.

Franck (left) trying on insulated gear under the guidance of site supervisor Lü Qing

Photo by Chen Yan

Originally from Cameroon in Central-West Africa, Franck is currently pursuing his graduate studies at Huaiyin Institute of Technology. During the summer break, he received a unique hands-on learning opportunity: an invitation from State Grid Huai’an Power Supply Company to experience the intense conditions faced by power workers during live-line operations in extreme heat.

By 11:00 a.m. that day, the outdoor temperature had already soared to 37°C, with heat waves radiating from the ground. According to the site supervisor, live-line operations are carried out to ensure uninterrupted power for residents. The ongoing pole-to-underground cable work can be completed without cutting off the power supply, but workers must take great care to avoid short circuits or electric shocks. Therefore, they perform high-altitude tasks clad in insulated gear. Franck tried on the heavy protective suit, gloves, and helmet—after just two minutes of standing there, he was drenched in sweat.

Franck observing live-line work at the site

Photo by Chen Yan

Workers conducting live-line operations in full protective gear aboard an insulated aerial lift

Photo by Chen Yan

Having lived in China for nine years, Franck said it was the first time he truly understood the dedication behind “uninterrupted power supply”—a responsibility borne by armored guardians who brave the blazing sun to keep the city illuminated.

Since July, Huai’an’s power grid has repeatedly set new records for peak load. To ensure safe and stable grid operation throughout the peak summer, State Grid Huai’an Power Supply Company has already carried out more than 1,151 live-line operations.