Power Dispatcher how-to

How to Communicate with Field Crews

Clear radio talk prevents accidents.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Clear radio talk prevents accidents. In short: identify; give; require, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Identify yourself and the crew.

  2. Give one step at a time.

  3. Require repeat-backs.

  4. Confirm completion.

  5. Log each step.

  6. Close out clearances.

Safety reminders for power dispatchers

  • Use peer-checked switching orders
  • Require repeat-backs on every instruction
  • Track clearances and grounds carefully
  • Follow NERC and company procedures

SCADA · EMS · Load · Feeder · Switching order · Clearance: see the full power dispatcher glossary.

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