Evolving Distribution Inspection Practices

This discussion forum focused on how utilities are combining human expertise, advanced technologies, and risk-based strategies to enhance inspection and maintenance programs. As the first forum dedicated specifically to distribution practices, participants came together to share insights, challenges, and emerging approaches in their inspection efforts—from poles and padmounts to manholes, underground assets, and entire circuits.

Contributors exchanged lessons on contractor use, in-house QA/QC strategies, and how they're incorporating drones, infrared, and AI tools into workflows. Utilities shared how they’re prioritizing inspections around wildfire risk, asset health, and customer impact, with some shifting toward data-driven circuit-based inspection cycles. The conversation revealed wide variation in methods, investment levels, and adoption timelines, but a shared focus on reliability, safety, and optimizing limited resources.

For more Information contact Rob Earle at 315.944.7610