Tech and Visual Intelligence Are Reshaping Utility Worker Safety.

Utility companies are turning to drones, AI, and visual tech to protect workers and reduce risks in one of the nation's most dangerous industries.

• By Kaitlyn Albertoli
• Apr 07, 2025

Worker safety has always been a top concern for utility companies, and a big shift is underway among industry leaders to adopt new technology that can help protect teams in the field and reduce the need for high-risk manual labor, specifically work that requires linemen to climb structures while the lines are energized. Among these changes, three key innovations have had the most impact: (1) drone-based inspections; (2) AI-powered data analysis; and (3) advanced visual intelligence capabilities.

1. Drone-Based Inspections

The traditional process for inspecting transmission and distribution (T&D) infrastructure requires line workers to climb utility poles multiple times to get a proper view of assets. If power is shut off during these inspections/repairs, customers get frustrated, but if power is left on, it’s much more dangerous for the worker.

In a time when utilities are trying to reduce outage minutes and improve SAIDI and SAIFI metrics, more work must be done on live wires. Even with bucket trucks or helicopters, every climb is a risk. The fatal injury rate for electrical power line workers is around 23 per 100,000—much higher than average. OSHA reports that falls account for half of T&D inspection injuries.

Utilities are increasingly using remote-operated drones with high-resolution cameras, LiDAR, and thermal imaging. These offer more detailed infrastructure assessments than manual inspections and enable preventive maintenance. In 2023, NYPA announced a $37.2 million investment in its drone program, highlighting this trend.

2. AI-Powered Data Analysis

Drone programs generate massive image datasets. Classifying billions of data points manually is nearly impossible, but AI systems can do it in seconds. Using machine learning, these tools track asset health, identify structural defects, and flag issues automatically for prioritized repair, reducing field exposure and error rates.

For example, after Hurricane Harvey, a utility deployed drones and AI to assess damage and plan repair routes, improving safety and saving time and costs. These tools also help prioritize repairs before re-energizing lines post-storm.

3. Advanced Visual Intelligence Capabilities

Substations, which house high-voltage equipment, are also being modernized. Traditional inspections are infrequent and basic, but now utilities are installing AI-powered systems that monitor real-time video to detect hazards, ensure PPE usage, detect injuries, and prevent unauthorized access.

Following a 2022 substation attack in North Carolina that caused 45,000 outages and one fatality, substation security is more urgent than ever. These tools are boosting safety, security, and efficiency.

Key Considerations for Utilities

• Increase Communication & Collaboration: Break down silos and align goals to improve data sharing and system performance.

• Foster a Data-Driven Culture: Upskill teams, stay current on AI innovations, and support continuous learning.

• Seek Industry Partnerships: Partner with vendors to ease resource constraints and get expert guidance.

• Balance Technology and Human Talent: Retain experienced workers for their knowledge and training capabilities.

Grounding Expectations

Utilities are at different stages in modernizing their inspection processes. While progress may take time, evaluating current operations and adopting new technology helps identify capability gaps and set a foundation for broader digital transformation.

Working in power utilities is a tough job, but somebody has to do it. At least in the future, it will be a bit safer.