Live working on overhead medium voltage networks. Combination of three different methods. Concept of `protection element´

Since 1969, EDF has developed medium voltage (MV) live working procedures by the `distance´ method in all its overhead networks to improve customer service continuity as well as the working conditions and operating safety of its employees. Simultaneous with this generalization, and with the same aim, experiments have been conducted to introduce the `contact´ and `potential´ working methods. These experiments have led the author to set common rules for the three `distance´, `contact´ and `potential´ methods, to forestall electrical risks and to facilitate the combination of the three methods. The combination of these three working methods is operational today and now being introduced