Power Dispatcher how-to

How to Write a Switching Order

Clear orders keep crews safe.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Clear orders keep crews safe. In short: review; study; list, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Review the work request.

  2. Study the one-line diagram.

  3. List steps in exact order.

  4. Include grounds and tags.

  5. Have it peer-checked.

  6. Brief the crew before switching.

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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