BUREAU OF RECLAMATION

FACILITIES INSTRUCTIONS, STANDARDS, & TECHNIQUES

Volume 4 - 6

WOOD POLE MAINTENANCE

AUGUST 1992

 CONTENTS

Section Page

I. Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

II. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

2.1. General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

2.2. Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

2.3. Inspection end Treatment Program for Wood Pole Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

2.4. Reclamation Wood Pole Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2.5. Destructive Forces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

III. Decay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

3.1. Types of Decay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

3.2. Detection of Decay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

IV. Inspection of Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

4.1. Preparation for Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

4.2. Identification of Substandard Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

4.3. Groundline Inspection and Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

4.4. Serviceability of Poles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

4.5. Pole-Top Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

4.6. Crossarm Inspection and Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

V. Determining the Serviceability of Decayed Poles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

5.1. General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

5.2. Decay Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

5.3. Permissible Reduced Circumference Safety Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

VI. Approved Treatments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

6.1. Decay Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

6.2. Other Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

VII. Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

7.1. Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Appendix A-Protecting Wood Poles with Vapam (Pole Gas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

A-1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

A-2. Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

A-3. Equipment and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

A-4. Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

A-5. Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

i (FIST 4- 6)
 CONTENTS - Continued

Section Page

Appendix B - Manufacturers, Product Names, and Ingredients of Toxic

Fungi-Killing Products for Groundline Treatment of Standing

Wood Poles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Appendix C - Wood Pole Woodpecker Damage Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Page

1. Typical internal decay in a 20-year old western red cedar pole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2. Internal decay In a Douglas fir pole that was in service about 11 years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

3. The Poi-Tek sonic tester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

4. Cedar shavings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

5. Douglas fir shavings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

6. Longitudinal cut through pole with a decay pocket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

7. Severely decayed pole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

8. Pole with advanced decay pocket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

9. Pole with minor decay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

10. Stub reinforcing of wood poles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

11. Wood pole Inspection and maintenance report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

12. Instructions for using BPA 1007 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

13. Applying Vapam treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

LIST OF TABLES

Table Page
1. Pole circumference SF (safety factors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2. Reduction in measured circumference of pole to compensate

for external pocket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3. Reduction in measured circumference of pole to compensate

for hollow heart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

4. Reduction in measured circumference of pole to compensate

for enclosed pocket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

(FIST 4- 6) ii
I. PURPOSE maintenance are notadequately staffed to
accomplish a full-scale inspection and
The purpose of this volume is to identify destruc­ treatment program for wood pole lines, the
tive forces that affect wooden transmission struc­ following two-stage program may be more
tures and to present constructive methods for appropriate for Reclamation use:
eliminating or successfully combating these
forces. This volume also outlines a preventive 2.3.1. Stage 1- Spot check and evalua-
maintenance program based on periodic tests tion.-
and treatment of wood poles to discover and
treat decay and thus prolong the service life of a. Spot check.-Reclamation personnel
structures. should spot check approximately 10
percent of the structures (or one
II. INTRODUCTION structure per mile) in a given line
section in accordance with the
2.1. GENERAL. Asystematic program of inspection procedures outlined in
pole inspection and maintenance is essential section IV and the treatment methods
for the following reasons: discussed in section VI and appendix
A. All poles in each spot-checked
a. Safety to life and property.-Poles structure should be checked and
should be maintained above definite evaluated.
minimum strength requirements.

b. Efficient servfce within the system.- b. Evaluation.-Data from spot checks

Outages or service interruptions due to on a given line section should be
pole failures should be kept to a carefully evaluated to obtain a
minimum. statistical estimate of the condition of
all poles in the line section. If more
c. Economical operation.-The number of than 10 percent of the poles are
pole replacements should not be estimated to have groundline decay, or
excessive and the maximum useful life more than 10 percent to have above-
should be obtained from every pole. ground decay or other defects,
consideration should be given for full-
2.2. CONSIDERATIONS. In this volume, scale inspection and treatment by con­
methods of inspection and maintenance of tract.
standing poles have been considered.
Information is included on the causes of pole 2.3.2. Stage 2- Specifications and
failures; intelligent application of this contract.-
information will aid in increasing average
pole life. Much of the information contained a. Specifications.-A copy of sample
in this volume has been compiled from specifications for inspection and treat­
Bonneville Power Administration ment of wood poles will be provided by
Maintenance Standard No. 63020-1, "Wood the General Sciences Division,
Pole Structure Maintenance," and Rural Operation and Maintenance Branch,
Electrification Administration Bulletin 161-4, Denver Office, upon request. These
"Pole Maintenance." Adherence to the specifications should be modified as
general rules will eliminate much guesswork; necessary to cover specific problems
nevertheless, good judgment should be used and local conditions.
in all cases, since the condition and
remaining useful life of similar poles will vary b. Contract.-Full-time inspection of all
widely. contractor activities by knowledgeable
Reclamation employee(s) is essential
2.3. INSPECTION AND TREATMENT PRO- to obtaining full value from an
GRAM FOR WOOD POLE STRUCTURES. inspection and treatment contract, as
Since most Reclamation organizations well as ensuring safety for personnel
responsible for transmission line and reliability of the power system,

1 (FIST4-6)
 2.4. RECLAMATION WOOD POLE critical groundline zone of poles is most subject
UNES. Many Reclamation wood pole to such deterioration because moisture
lines were constructed in the late 1940's conditions near and below groundline are most
and early 1950's. During this period, favorable to growth of wood-destroying
most pole suppliers changed from the organisms.
use of creosote to pentachlo-rophenol as
a preservative, and adequate quality Most wood-destroying organisms are simple
control measures had not been plants, called fungi. They obtain all their food
established to ensure optimum from the wood they live in. Uke other plants,
preservative treatment. Also, during that fungi develop from spores (seeds) which
period, poles were in short supply, and germinate, establish extensive root-like systems
many species of timber were used for within the wood, and eventually produce
poles. In some instances poles of microscopic size spores by the millions. Sound
western red cedar, Douglas fir, wood may become infected by spores, or by
Iodgepole or southern pine, and western direct contact with infected material, including
larch were used in a given line section. contaminated test equipment.
Throughout this bulletin, two species,
western red cedar and Douglas fir, are During the progress of decay, wood first loses its
discussed. For our purposes, pine and luster (looks "dead"), then, as change in color
larch poles should be considered in the becomes progressively more pronounced, the
same category as Douglas fir unless wood loses its characteristic structure and
otherwise indicated. strength, until only a soft whitish or easily
crumbled brown mass remains. Usually the
2.5 DESTRUCTIVE FORCES. One of decayed wood is wetter than adjacent sound
the most destructive forces affecting wood. In cedar poles, internal decay usually
wooden transmission structures is decay. appears as brown pockets of advanced decay
It will generally progress at a predictable with little surrounding areas of partially decayed
rate and its advance can be readily wood (fig.1). In Douglas fir, on the other hand,
diagnosed in the field at all but the very pockets of advanced decay may be surrounded
early stages. by large areas of wood in various stages of decay
(fig. 2). In some fir poles, most of the cross
Also, the damage caused by termites, section may contain decay in the earlier stages
beetles, ants, and woodpeckers can be but with advanced decay limited to a small area.
significant and should receive attention Most frequently, insects such as termites and
in proportion to the influence of these carpenter ants are also present in the decayed
pests upon the poles in a given area. zone.

Early detection of decay or damage and 3.1.2. External decay.-In any species of timber,
treatment of it is by far the most external decay results from using a poor
important and successful step in preservative or from a Iow absorption of the
extending pole life. preservative by the timer. In older poles, external
decay is a consequence of gradual loss of most
III. DECAY of the preservative in the sapwood through
leaching, evaporation, and chemical change. In
3.1. TYPES OF DECAY.- butt-treated cedar poles, a softening of the
sapwood known as "shell rot' occurs in the upper
3.1.1. Internal decay.-Internal untreated portion of the pole. Such decay starts
deterioration of treated poles is due very in the inner sapwood where air and moisture
largely to development of checks after conditions promote fungus growth, and
treatment that expose the untreated eventually extends to the outer sapwood.
center portion of the pole to fungi and
insects. Although internal decay may 3.1.3. Groundline decay.-In most cases, the first
occur above ground as a result of checks occurrence of decay will be just below the
or holes drilled after treatment, the groundline. This is where the conditions of

(FIST 4- 6) 2

 moisture, temperature, air, and the

absence of direct sunlight are most fa­
vorable to the growth of fungi. Unfortu­
nately, this is a portion of the pole usually
hidden from view and it is close to the
natural breaking point of a pole under
strain. Thus, it is the most critical part of
the pole and warrants special inspection
and maintenance.

3.2. DETECTION OF DECAY. Two methods are

generally used to determine the presence and
the degree of decay in poles. Sounding a pole
with a hammer, mechanical sounding tool, or
electronic sonic pole tester will usually detect the
presence of decay. Boring the suspect pole with
a brace and bit or an increment borer will
confirm the presence and determine the degree
of the decay. Figure 1. Typical internal decay in a 20-year-old
western red cedar pole. Areas of advanced decay
3.2.1. Sounding.-Experienced personnel are surrounded by narrow zones of wood in early
states of decay.
can detect internal decay pockets by using
a 1- or 2-pound hammer to make sound
tests above ground or at groundline after
excavation. A mechanical device, such as
the "M-pact-O Pole Sounder' (marketed by
the Engineers Tools Corp., Lake City,
Iowa), can be used for grounding sounding
without excavation.

The sonic pole tester (such as the "Pol-

Tek,"distributed by the Chapman Chemical
Co., Memphis, Tenn.) is a device that is
used on poles and crossarms scheduled for
periodic testing. Basically, this instrument is
a sonic generator which injects a sound
impulse into a pole and then records the
time required for this impulse to pass
through the pole and impinge on a
receiving unit (fig. 3). The composition and
homogeneity of the wood in addition to its
thickness will determine the time for
propagation of the impulse through the
poles.

Tests indicate that while the sonic pole tes­

ter will not always indicate the degree of
decay and its extent, with a high degree of
accuracy it will pick out poles which are
decaying or have internal voids, cracks, or Figure 2. Internal decay in a Douglas fir pole that
fractures which may or may not decrease was in service about 11 years. Areas of advanced
the strength of the pole significantly. 'the decay ere surrounded by wide zones of wood in
instrument does not register any pole as earlier stages of decay.
good when it actually contains any signifi-

3 (FIST 4- 6)

 cant amount of internal decay. Thus, only

poles which DO NOT TEST GOOD
should be subsequently bored to
conclusively establish the presence and
extent of decay or identify the cause of
the "bad reading.'

3.2.2. Boring.-Boring a pole at the

locations where "bad" soundings were
obtained will clearly establish the type and
extent of decay. Not only are the
materials removed from the bore hole
significant, the borer as it penetrates the
wood is equally significant.

When boring, notice that once the boring

instrument has obtained a purchase on
the wood, considerable effort is required
to turn the instrument; however, the bit
will advance without external pressure.
Less effort may be required as the bit
penetrates because of the increasing Figure 3. The Pol-Tek sonic tester.
moisture content of the wood; however,
an abrupt reduction in force required to
turn the instrument may indicate that the (4) Since collections of shavings during
bit has entered wood in the early stages boring of poles in the field are difficult, stop
of decay. boring as soon as a suspicious area is
reached and remove all shavings to that
Eventually, the bit may cease to penetrate on its point for examination. Continue boring by
own because of complete loss of purchase. Ad­ stages to facilitate the removal of unmixed
ditional pressure on the bit may be necessary to shavings.
maintain its advance into the decayed wood.
Wood in the advanced stages of decay will allow (5) Treat and plug all holes to prevent
the bit to penetrate it by pressure alone. infection of sound poles.
3.2.2.1. Precautions when boring.- 3.2.2.2. Interpreting the boring materials.-
Shavings removed from sound wood usually are
(1) Keep boring instruments sharp. As uniform in size, fibrous, and require considerable
bits become dull, the more difficult it force to break. As decay becomes more
is to distinguish between sound and advanced, a higher proportion of fines appear
decayed wood. mixed with the shavings, which become
progressively easier to crumble. Advanced decay
(2) In certain cases where the sonic usually results in particles of small size that lack
tester does not clearly indicate the cut surfaces and tend to pack in the flutes of the
outline of internal defects, several auger.
borings may be necessary to
determine how far various stages of Cores removed with an increment borer usually
decay extend within the pole. remain intact until advanced stages of decay are
reached. Earlier stages of decay may be
(3) Wood texture, color, and moisture determined by breaking off sections of the core
content vary greatly in poles so that and crumbling them between the fingers. Sound
no single set of distinguishing wood retains much of its fibrous nature, is
characteristics can be applied to all difficult to tear apart, and does
poles.

(FIST4-6) 4

 not crumble into fine particles. Decayed

wood breaks easily and crumbles.

Figure 4 shows shavings removed with

an auger from a cedar pole; figure 5
shows the same from a Douglas fir pole.
Sound fibrous wood in each case is on
the left. Decayed wood, which easily
crumbles to small particles, can be seen
on the right.

IV. INSPECTION OF STRUCTURES

4.1. PREPARATION FOR INSPECTION.

Prior to the regular inspection, determine
which poles or structures (for obvious
reasons) will be replaced in the near future
and either eliminate them from the program
altogether or identify them for reduced
preventive maintenance.

4.2. IDENTIFICATION OF SUBSTANDARD Figure 4. Cedar shavings.

STRUCTURES. Mark with a wide band of red
paint, or similar identification, any pole or
crossarm which inspection as follows
identifies as being sufficiently decayed or
deteriorated to require replacement. Refrain
from climbing such a structure or working
from a marked crossarm unless adequate
measures have been taken to prevent an
accident.

NOTE: When replacing a deteriorated pole

with a new pole, DO NOT cut off the top of
the new pole.

4.3. GROUNDLINE INSPECTION AND

TREATMENT.-

4.3.1. Inspection frequency.-

Frequency in years

Fir and
Cedar larch

Initial 15 12 Figure 5. Douglas fir shavings.

Reinspect-Sound pole 12 12
Reinspect-Minor decay 6 6

5 (FIST 4- 6)

4.3.2. Procedure.- If the groundline cimumference is below the

permissible minimum, the pole should be
4.3.2.1.Preliminarystructure promptly replaced or stubbed.
evaluation.- Examine entire structure
from ground for the following defects: 4.3.2.3. Internal decay.-

(1) Excessive checking, cracking, or a. Testing methods.-In addition to visual

splitting; especially deep checks in full- observation, inspection methods include
length-treated poles showing white wood. sounding and boring when necessary. '[he
sounding test is fast and completely
(2) Woodpecker holes and evidence of nondestructive, but it will not reveal the
insect colonies. extent and type of defect. It will not
indicate whether the pole has a harmless
(3) Excessive shell decay above ground- void or a large and dangerous decay
Note degree. pocket. Boring will reveal details on the
type and severity of decay, but it is rather
(4) Lightning damage. slow, somewhat destructive, and may
conceivably introduce decay-causing
(5) Damaged or corroded guying. organisms into a sound pole.

(6) Damaged bracing. By testing all poles first by sounding and

then following up by boring only poles
(7) If in through-drilled poles the back- which failed the sounding test, all poles
fill extends above the drilled section- may be evaluated with a minimum
REMOVE! amount of unavoidable damage and a
reduced possibility of infecting healthy
(8) Any other obvious defects. poles. If a sonic tester is available, use
itfirst to eliminate good poles from the
NOTE: If pole top and crossarm defects maintenance program, and resort to
cannot readily be assessed from the boring only when necessary to confirm
ground, climb the pole for a thorough decay.
analysis after determining that it is safe
to do so. b. Precedure.-Look for checks which
extend into the ground or terminate just
4.3.2.2. External decay.-Where surface above groundline. Take a reading with the
decay is found at the groundline, exca­ sonic tester between the widest check and
vate around the deteriorated section of the opposite side of the pole and another
the pole. Measure and record the pole at right angle to the check. If the sonic
cimumference at the groundline; remove tester indicates no serious internal decay
the surface decay down to sound wood, above ground, the next step is to
and record the new circumference of the excavate deeper in dry or porous soils,
pole. and this can be determined as the work
progresses. The hole should be wide
If the remaining pole section has suffi­ enough to permit use of the borer below
cient circumference, as determined from groundl-ine if boring is necessary. Care
the tables in section V, inspect for must be taken not to cut or disturb the
internal decay. If internal decay is found, ground wire. Take two additional readings
treat the decayed section as outlined in with the sonic tester. If both readings
section 6.1.1., "Groundline Treatment." indicate sound wood, the test is complete.

(FIST 4 - 6) 6

 All poles thus excavated and not

condemned should be given a
groundline treatment. Excavating
aerates the soil and encourages the
growth of fungi, and the cost of such
maintenance is largely taken care of
when crew and equipment are at the site
and excavating has been performed. If
either of the two readings indicates a
defect, take additional readings to better
localize the defect and its extent.

Once the defect is established and

localized, bore into the pole quarters in
which the irregularity was noted to
determine its nature and extent. If decay
is found, bore the other two quarters and
also bore one hole 2 feet above the
decay pocket. From these borings
determine the serviceability of the pole
(see sec. 4.4). Finally, inject Vapam
(pole gas), as specified in appendix A,
into the bore holes and internal voids or
pockets. Another approximately equal
treatment, such as “Os-mose Hollow
Heart," may be used. After internal
treatment, drive tight-fit-ting Figure 6. Longitudinal cut through pole with a decay
preservative-impregnated plugs into the pocket.
bore holes.

NOTE: It is suggested that Vapam or a Poles are severely decayed and should
penta solution be injected into the bored be replaced immediately (a) if any
holes even if no sign of decay is quarter has 2 inches or less of good
detected. Decay may also be found wood and the decay as shown in figure 7
between the groundline and the top of a is more than 10 percent of the bored
pole. Spot checks should also be made cross section or (b) if at least three
at the bottom of cracks terminating quarters have 3 inches or less of good
above ground. If decay is found, a wood. Mark poles like the one in figure 7
complete inspection should be pro­ with a band of red paint or similar
grammed. identification.
NOTE: To determine the decayed area
4.4. SERVICEABlLITY OF POLES. From the in figure 7, multiply the maximum
boring results, determine the amount of sound distance across the decay pocket by the
wood left. Figure 6 shows a typical pocket of minimum distance across it.
decay. Figures 7, 8, and 9 show varying degrees Poles with advanced decay pockets (fig.
of decay. 8) should be programmed for routine
replacement, if all quarters have less
NOTE: When boring at a 45E angle, the thickness than 5 inches but more than 3 inches of
of good wood is approximately two-thirds of the good wood. Mark poles like the one in
bit length (fig. 6). figure 8 with a band of red paint or
similar identification and replace the
poles within 3 years.

7 (FIST4-6)

 Figure 7. Severely decayed pole. Figure 9. Pole with minor decay.

Section V gives criteria, instructions, and tables

for determining the serviceability of wood poles
with decay at the groundline.

4.5.POLE-TOPINSPECTIONS.-

4.5.1. Butt-treated cedar poles. ­

Schedule inspections when performing
above-ground structure inspections, when
inspecting or performing maintenance at
the top of the structure, or when patrols
indicate a need for a more detailed
inspection.

4.5.2. Full-length treated fir poles. - Spot

check pole tops for decay at the time the
groundline or routine structure inspection is
made. When general pole-top deterioration
appears extensive, program a pole-top
treatment. Keep in mind that poles which
have been cut off after b'eatment are espe­
cially susceptible to decay.

Check for possible hazardous cracks, espe­

cially in line with drilled bolt holes. Check
Figure 8. Pole with advanced decay pocket.
all bolt holes for decayed wood; not any
white or untreated wood in checks and look
for shell rot, particularly on the weather side
of the structure. Note any other damage

(FIST4-6) 8

 that would affect structure integrity. Take ence. If the decay is limited to a portion of the
sonic readings in lines with the largest pole not exceeding 6 inches in width and 5
cracks and follow up with a bore test if inches in depth, it shall be classified as an
decay is suspected. "External Pocket," otherwise, external decay
shall be classified as "General External Decay."
4.6. CROSSARM INSPECTION AND
TREATMENT. Inspect crossarms during 5.3. PERMISSIBLE REDUCED
structure inspections or when conditions CIRCUMFERENCE SAFETY FACTORS.
warrant a special inspection. Make periodic Wood pole transmission lines are designed
inspections of spar arms and X-braces. using a pole strength safety factor of 4 (SF
Inspect the crossarm thoroughly from each 4), and the groundline circumference of a
pole in case of a multiple structure. Check pole is used as a measure of pole strength.
crossarms for any damage caused by Table 1 shows the relationship between
lightning, woodpeckers, etc. Inspect for reduced circumferences (caused by general
checks, splits, or decay pockets, particularly external decay) and reduced safety factors.
at holes bored through the arm. Circumference reductions to compensate for
other categories of decay, tables 2, 3, and 4,
Note checks across the top of the crossarm should be applied to the circumferences in
which may hold moisture. Bore the crossarm table 1 to determine the resultant reduced
from below to drain the moisture. Keep bore circumference and the corresponding pole
holes at least I foot apart. Use increment safety factor.
borer or brace and bit to inspect for decay.
If the reduced circumference indicates a pole
NOTE: Because of the scarcity and high cost safety factor less than that specified
of quality wood spar arms, the Mid-Pacific following table 1, the pole should be replaced
region has been replacing deteriorated spar or stubbed immediately. Poles meeting or
arms with I-beams of a high-strength, exceeding the specified safety factors should
corrosive-re-sistant steel (Cor-Ten). be treated as specified in section 6.1.1 or
appendix A, and scheduled for reinspection
V. DETERMINING THE SERVICEABILITY OF as outlined in section 4.3.1.
DECAYED POLES.
The tables should be used in accordance
5.1. GENERAL. The decision to treat or with the following instructions:
replace a decayed pole shall depend upon
the remaining strength or serviceability of the 5.3.1. General external decay. - After
pole. The permissible reduced circumference cutting away all decayed wood,
of a pole is a good measure of serviceability; measure the circumference above or
it may be determined by using the following below the decayed section to determine
discussion and tables. the original (SF 4) circumference. Then
measure around the pole where the
5.2. DECAY CLASSIFICATION. Decay at decay was removed; this
the groundline shall be classified as: measurementis the reduced
circumference. Check the original and
(1) General external decay, reduced circumference. Check the
original and reduced circumferences
(2) External pocket, against table 1.

(3) Hollow heart, or 5.3.2. External pocket. - Remove

decayed wood and make
(4) Enclosed pocket. measurements of the dept h and width
of the pocket. Measure the pole for the
External decay may extend around the pole original (SF 4) circumference. Refer to
and cover a large area of the circumference table 2 to determine the circumference
or it may be limited to a small area reduction. After the circumference
representing only a portion of the circumfer­

9 (FIST 4- 6)

 Table 1 .-Pole circumference SF (safety factors)

Original
circumference Reduced circumference
(inches) (inches)
SF4 SF3.5 SF 3 SF2.65 SF2.5 SF2 SF1.5
30.0 28.7 27.3 26.1 25.6 23.8 21.6
31.0 29.7 28.2 27.0 26.5 24.6 22.3
32.0 30.6 29.1 27.9 27.4 25.4 23.0
33.0 31.6 30.0 28.8 28.2 26.2 23.8
34.0 32.5 30.9 29.6 29.1 27.0 24.5
35.0 33.5 31.8 30.5 29.9 27.8 25.2
36.0 34.4 32.7 31.4 30.8 28.6 25.9
37.0 35.4 33.6 32.3 31.6 29.4 26.6
38.0 36.3 34.5 33.1 32.5 30.2 27.4
39.0 37.3 35.4 34.0 33.3 31.0 28.1
40.0 38.3 36.3 34.9 34.2 31.8 28.8
41.0 39.2 37.3 35.7 35.1 32.5 29.5
42.0 40.2 38.2 36.6 35.9 33.3 30.2
43.0 41.1 39.1 37.5 36.8 34.1 31.0
44.0 42.1 40.0 38.4 37.6 34.9 31.7
45.0 43.0 40.9 39.2 38.5 35.7 32.4
46.0 44.0 41.8 40.1 39.3 36.5 33.1
47.0 45.0 42.7 41.0 40.2 37.3 33.8
48.0 45.9 43.6 41.8 41.0 38.1 34.6
49.0 46.9 44.5 42.7 41.9 38.9 35.3
50.0 47.8 45.4 43.6 42.7 39.7 36.0
51.0 48.8 46.3 44.5 43.6 40.5 38.7
52.0 49.7 47.2 45.3 44.5 41.3 37.4
53.0 50.7 48.2 46.2 45.3 42.1 38.2
54.0 51.6 49.1 47.1 48.2 42.9 38.9
55.0 52.6 50.0 47.9 47.0 43.7 39.6
56.0 53.6 50.9 46.8 47.9 44.4 40.3
57.0 54.5 51.8 49.7 48.7 45.2 41.0
58.0 55.5 52.7 50.6 49.6 46.0 41.8
59.0 56.4 53.6 51.4 50.4 46.8 42.5
60.0 57.4 54.5 52.3 51.3 47.6 43.2

PERMISSIBLE REDUCED CIRCUMFERENCE SAFETY FACTORS

No single pole shall have SF less then 2.65

No H-structure shall have SF less than 2.65 and no pole shall have SF less than 2.

For H-structures, add the SF's for each pole and divide by 2 to obtain the structure SE For tension-type

structures (dead ends), no pole shall have SF less than 2.65.

reduction is determined, subtract it from the pocketseparately and add them to get the total

original (SF 4) circumference to arrive at the reduction.

reduced cimumferences against table 1.

5.3.3. Hollow heart. - When hollow heart is

For more than one external decay pocket, found, determine the shell thickness and
determine the reduction for each

(FIST 4 - 6) 10
11 (FIST 4- 6)

 measure the original (SF 4) (2) Whenever a pole over 5 years old
circumference of the pole; then refer to is reset.
table 3 to obtain the circumference.
Check the original end reduced (3) Whenever a used pole is installed
circumferences against table 1. as a replacement.

To determine the shell thickness, bore Various products and methods are now pro­
four holes (preferably 5/16- or 3/8-inch moted for the groundline treatment of stand­
diameter), 90O apart; measure the shell ing poles. Some solutions are available for
thickness at each hole, add, end divide pouring on the outer surface of the pole for
by 4. No transmission pole shall remain groundline treatment, but the use of a pre­
in service with a shell thickness less servative paste or grease is recommended.
then 3 inches. Accepted pastes or greases containing toxic
fungi-killing agents, including a high
5.3.4. Enclosed pocket. - An enclosed concentration of sodium fluoride or
pocket is en off center void as shown in pentachloraphenol are:
table 4, and its diameter should be
measured by boring holes as described a. Pento-creto paste (heavy-duty type),
in section 5.3.3. Using the minimum manufactured by Androc Chemical
thickness of the shell, refer to table 4 for Co., Minneapolis, Minn.
the reduction in circumference. After
calculating the reduced circumference, b. Osmoplastic, menufactured by Os-
check the original end reduced mose Wood Preserving Co. of
circumferences against table 1. American, Inc., Buffalo, N.Y.

For more then one enclosed pocket, C. Pole Preservative PasteT-X,

determine the reduction for each pocket manufactured by Wood-Treating
separately end add them to determine Chemicals Co., ST. Louis, Mo.
the total reduction.
d. POL-NU or TIMPREG,
VI. APPROVED TREATMENTS manufactured by Chapmen Chemical
Co., Memphis, Tenn.
6.1 .DECAYMAINTENANCE.-
After excavation and inspection below
6.1.1. Groundline treatment. - Supple­ groundline have been completed, use a blunt
mental field treatments are not a tool to scrap away all external decay found
substitute for thorough original treatment on the pole. Take measurements to
by the pole supplier. Nevertheless, all determine whether the pole meets the mini­
treated poles sooner or later lose mum permissible circumference in
resistance to decay, end groundline accordance with tables 1, 2, 3, and 4. If the
treatment provides an economical circumference of the pole meets the require­
extension of their physical life. Experi­ ments, clean the pole surface with a wire
ence has shown that groundline decay brush. Remove all debris from the excavated
can be postponed almost indefinitely by area. Cover the surface of the pole from 3
periodic inspection and maintenance. inches below the decayed section up to at
least 6 inches above the ground level with an
Groundline treatment is recommended acceptable grease or paste applied according
under the following conditions: to instructions furnished for the specific
preservative used. 'then wrap the treated
(1) Whenever a pole is excavated during section of the pole with two layers of Kraft
an inspection, and the pole is sound or laminated paper or a suitable substitute. Use
decay is not so far advanced that the
pole must be replaced.

(FIST 4 - 6) 12

staples or masking tape to hold the wrapping in should be closely supervised; because to be
place. Backfill and tamp well. effective, the penetration and absorption of
the preservative must be the maximum pos­
Groundline treatments should be given during the sible. The recommended preservative is a
summer months. Help is then more readily 10 percent solution of penta in a light petro­
available; the preservative need not be heated; leum carrier, or equivalent. The pole
digging is easier, and the pole is drier. surface should be dry, with the pole
moisture content below 30 percent as
This bulletin emphasizes the desirability of determined using a moisture meter.
inspection and groundline treatment before
decay is well advanced into the pole at A Reclamation employee should first spot
groundline. When groundline decay is discovered check the poles from the ground and mark
too late, the pole must be stubbed or replaced. poles that are deemed suitable for the treat­
Stubbing can frequently be done at one-third to ment, excluding those defective for any rea­
one-half the cost of replacement, particularly son. The contractor should make a second
when replacement would require considerable inspection of the marked poles by climbing
transfer work. Of course, the upper portion of any them and excluding any poles in which top
pole to be stubbed must be sound and in decay is too far advanced.
generally good condition. When stubbing is
decided upon, figure 10 should be used as a In addition to determining that the right
guide. The strength of a stub must equal the poles are treated, a Reclamation employee
strength required for a new pole. should verify the amounts of preservative
used, see that critical points are carefully
6.1.2. Above-ground treatment. - The above- treated, obtain samples of the preservative
ground portion of a pole is not subjected to the for analysis, and generally observe that all
same conditions that promote decay at details of the treatment are carried out as
groundline. Nevertheless, decay above ground agreed. Detailed records should be made
(often referred to as "shell rot") will, in time, and retained in permanent files.
develop in ail poles. In recent years there has
been increased use of spray, flow-on, or brush The treatment is usually applied through a
treatments to the upper portion of poles, flexible hose under 5 to 8 pounds per
especially butt-treated cedar transmission poles. square inch (lbs/in2) of pressure from a tank
truck. Treatment starts at the top of the pole
The treatment should be applied before surface with the preservative flowing thoroughly to
decay starts or while it is in the early stages. It is ail surfaces. Immediately after the first
applied only once in the life of a pole. Such treatment, a second application of
treatments may be considered in the following preservative should be applied to the top 10
cases: feet of the pole to assure maximum
absorption in the upper section and at
(1) In butt-treated cedar transmission attachment points.
poles 15 to 20 years old.
Safety precautions must be carefully ob­
(2) In butt-treated or full-length-treated served, especially when applying this treat­
poles of other species, but mainly on ment to poles supporting energized electric
transmission lines in which poles are ex­ lines. Caution should also be used to avoid
pensive to replace and where such poles damage to freshly treated poles by grass
are protected from groundline decay by fires.
repeated groundline treatment.

There are companies with the required

equipment who specialize in performing this
type of treatment by contract. The work

13 (FIST 4- 6)

(FIST 4-6)
14
6.2. OTHER MAINTENANCE.- able nozzle, can be used to inject the creosote
into two or three holes bored to connect with the
6.2.1. Woodpecker damage. - Wood­ galleries. Occasionally, ground-dwelling termites
pecker damage is another problem requiring are found in poles otherwise sound, and they
attention in some localities. Many ideas may be destroyed in the same manner.
have been tried to outwit these birds, but
nothing has been entirely successful. Two 6.2.3. Fire damage. - Fire damage can
points are worth keeping in mind: make poles useless. Extreme care should
be used in burning rubbish or brush along
(1) There has been a tendency to exag­ rights-of-way where treated poles are spot­
gerate the damage done by woodpeck­ ted. After poles are set in the ground, the
ers. The ordinary breaking point is near immediate area should be cleared of weeds.
the ground. Above the midsection, where Freshly treated poles can often be easily
most woodpecker attacks occur, tests ignited; after a few months in service,
have shown that 25 percent of the wood treated poles become more fire resistant.
can be removed without serious loss of Where hot grass fires occur annually, and
strength. With consideration to wind particularly if butt-treated poles are used in
loading, woodpecker holes are less such areas, the grass around poles should
damaging on either face than on the side be eliminated in the spring with commercial
of the pole. weedkillers. Fire-retardant coatings are
available for application to poles. Aluminum
(2) Woodpecker holes often expose un­ sheets tacked around pole bases have also
treated wood to moisture and the spores proved effective, and are particularly suit­
of fungi, with resulting decay that weak­ able on farmed land. When a chemical
ens the pole far more than the holes weedkiller is to be used, a soil-sterilant,
themselves. water-soluble type that will keep weeds
down for a 3-year period is recommended.
It appears that a woodpecker selects a pole (See FIST Volume 4 - 8, Herbicides
only by chance, and that the first hole Available for Treating Soil for Total Vegeta­
invites further attack by other woodpeckers. tion Control.)
Appendix C contains a method of repairing
woodpecker damage to wood poles. VII. REPORTING

6.2.2. Termite and ant damage. ­ 7.1. FORMS. Various forms have been
Termite and ant damage can be a developed for recordkeeping concerning pole
problem in many areas. Ground-dwelling inspection and maintenance. Some utilities
termites can be controlled by the same maintain a record for each pole on a form
measures taken to prevent decay-good that provides spaces for keeping track of
preservative treatment. Black and brown inspections and their results. A sample ADP
carpenter ants can be a serious problem, form developed by BPA (Bonneville Power
especially in cedar or injury and Administration) is displayed in figure 11 with
construct galleries that seriously weaken instructions in figure 12. This particular form
the pole near the groundline. Unlike could be acquired from BPA or a similar form
termites, they do not feed upon the could be developed if a computerized record
wood. They may be effectively destroyed of wood pole inspection and maintenance is
by injecting about I pint of creosote into desired.
the inter-connected galleries. An
ordinary grease gun, fitted with a suit­

15 (FIST 4 - 6)

(FIST 4-6)
16
17 (FIST 4-6)

 APPENDIX A

PROTECTING WOOD POLES WITH VAPAM (POLE GAS)

A-1. INTRODUCTION.-This appendix covers a (3) Inject equal amounts of Vapam into all
method of treating Douglas fir, western red the holes, a total of 1 pint per hole or the
cedar, ponderosa and southern pine, and larch amount it will hold (fig. A-1).
utility poles to arrest and prevent internal wood
decay and to destroy insects such as termites, (4) Plug holes with treated plugs. Wear
carpenter ants, and golden buprestids. 'This safety goggles to prevent any of the liquid
method utilizes an agricultural fumigant, sodium Vapam from splashing into the eyes.
N-methyldithiocarbamate, known under the trade
name Vapam, also identified as pole gas, that (5) Dispose of empty Vapam containers.
effectively sterilizes the poles in the section DO NOT transport the empty containers in
treated. In addition to rapid sterilization of the a closed vehicle.
wood, a fungi-toxic residual is deposited in the
cells of the wood from the gas phase. This
residual is effective for an indefinite period since
chemical analysis shows the residue to be
principally elemental sulfur.

A-2. TREATMENT.-Use Vapam fumigant in

wood poles at the time of groundline bore test
inspection and as a supplemental groundline
treatment. Schedule poles known to have
internal decay or that have white wood showing
near groundline for treatment before they have
decayed to the point where replacing them is
necessary.

A-3. EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS.-

(1) A 9/16-inch wood auger.

(2) Vapam in 1-pint bottles.

(3) Treated wood filler plugs (5/8 by 6

inches).

(4.) Safety goggles.

A-4. PROCEDURE.-

(1) If the pole is inspected with a sonic pole

tester and no low readings are recorded

and no evidence of wood-destroying

insects is noticed, do not bore that pole

and, hence, do not use the Vapam.

(2) In poles with either decay pockets or in-

sects, bore a hole in each quarter at
groundline and one hole 2 feet above
groundline, preferably above the decay Figure A-1. Applying Vapam treatment.
pocket.

19 (FIST4-6)
 (6) Carry the bottles of Vapam in sturdy readily manifest its presence so that necessary
cartons in pickup-type vehicles external to corrective actions can be taken readily and
the passenger compartment. safely. To protect workmen who may be
unusually sensitive to Vapam, each crew should
A-5. SAFETY.-Vapam is a rather safe material have a chemical respirator at hand when using
since its external and internal toxicity can be Vapam. As any other active chemical, Vapam
considered low; and it would be nearly impossible should be used consciously and with respect.
to accidentally take in or expose oneself to a
hazardous dosage. However, Vapam's irritating Poles near residences or other locations where
quality, which is similar to that of tear gas, makes children or the public may come in contact with
the use of goggles mandatory and the use of the treated pole shall not be treated with Vapam
rubber gloves highly desirable. On the other or any other toxic material.
hand, however, the foul odor of this material will

(FIST 4 - 6) 20

 APPENDIX B

MANUFACTURERS, PRODUCT NAMES, AND INGREDIENTS OF

TOXIC FUNGI-KILLING PRODUCTS FOR GROUNDLINE TREATMENT
OF STANDING WOOD POLES
Chapmen Chemical Compeny
P.O. Box 9158
416 E. Brooks Road
Memphis, TN 38109
(901)398-6261

"POL-NU'
Active ingredients: Pentachlorphenol 9.16% *
Other chlorinated phenols 1.07 *
Aromatic petroleum derivative solvents 81.34
inert ingredients: 8.43
100.00%

* Equivalent to 10.66 percent pentachlorophenol, technical, as defined by Federal Specification

TT-W-570a.

“TIMPREG"
Active ingredients: Pentachlorophenol 9.21% *
Other chlorinated penols 1.07 *
Creosote 15.00
Sodium Fluoride 15.00
Aromatic petroleum derivative solvents 51.30
Inert ingredients: 8.42
100.00%

*Equivalent to 10.7 percent pentachlorophenol, technical, as defined by Federal Specification

TT-W-570a.

Osmose Wood Preserving Company, Inc.

980 Ellicott Street
Buffalo, NY 14209
(716)882-5905

"OSMOPLASTIC" (used with OsmoShield Polyethylene Moisture Barrier)

Active Ingredients: Sodium Fluoride 45.8%
Dinitrophenol 3.5
Potassium bichromate 2.5
Pentachlorophenol 2.2
Creosote (carrier plus thickeners) 41.0
Inert ingredients: 5.0
100.0%

"OSMOPLASTIC B"
Active ingredients: Sodium borate 15.0%
Pentachlorophenol 10.0
Creosote 15.0
Inert ingredients: (carrier plus thickener) 60.0
100.0%

21 (FIST 4- 6)
Osmose Wood Preserving Company, Inc. (Cont.)

“OSMOPLASTICF"
Active ingredients: Sodium fluoride 20.0%
Pentachlorophenol 10.0
Creosote 15.0
Inert ingredients: (carrier plus thickener) 55.0
100.0%
Wood Treating Chemicals
Division of Koppers Co., Inc.
5137 S.W. Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63110
(314)772-2200

"POLE-TOX' (made for asplundh) or'TRITOX' 40.0%

Active ingredients: Sodium fluoride 3.0
Potassium dicaromate 10.0
Pentachlorophenol 35.0
Creosote 12.0
Inert ingredients: 100.0%

"POLE-LIFE"
Active ingredients: Sodium fluoride 15.0%
Pentachlorophenol 10.0
Creosote 15.0
Inert ingredients: (carrier plus thickener) 60.0
100.0%

Adams Engineering, Inc.

4805 University Ave N.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55421

Intermountain Chemical and Supply Company (Western distributor)

P.O. Box 42
Fort Collins, CO 80522
(303) 482-6553

“PATOX" (impregnated glass fiber bandage)

Active ingredients: Sodium fluoride 37.9%
Potassium dichromate 12.6
Pentachlorophenol 10.0
Creosote 11.0
Inert ingredients: 28.5
100.0%

(FIST4-6) 22

 APPENDIX C

WOOD POLE WOODPECKER DAMAGE REPAIR

C-1. INTRODUCTION.-This appendix covers a cavity when expansion from curing

method of repairing wood pole damage caused occurs.
by woodpeckers thereby eliminating the climbing
hazard, potential decay points, costly pole (3) Most curing and expansion occurs
replacement, and regaining structural strength. within 10 minutes and cardboard can be
removed and excess material readily
C-2. MATERIAL.-Excellent results have been chipped off.
obtained using the Semco epoxy compound to
fill holes in wood poles. Adhesion to wood fiber Excess material that will not go into hole can be
was very good even where moisture was used to fill cracks or other voids.
present, as the heat generated by the epoxy
drives the moisture out and vaporizes it, as C-4. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.-
witnessed during trial application at the
Bonneville Power Administration's Ross (1) Avoid direct skin contact by using
Laboratory. Texture of the material after curing disposable polyethylene protective
was about the same as a knot and will support a gloves. Skin or barrier creams are not
lineman's climber to a better degree than a knot. recommended.
The material can also be worked with standard
tools such as drill bits, axe, chain saw, etc., with (2) Avoid breathing vapors; especially
no damage to the tool. 'the material is also when working in a confined area.
useful in blocking around cables to prevent
rodent access into control buildings from cable (3) Do not burn or heat to decomposition
trenches. In order to obtain the desired results, because toxic fumes (amines,
it is very important that the manufacturer's isocyanates) may be emitted.
mixing instructions be followed closely. Failing to
do so will give undesirable results. (4) Wear eye protection during all
applications.
C-3. PROCEDURE.-Have an adequate supply of
material on hand to fill hole until excess starts to C-5. FIRST AID PROCEDURES.-
ooze out. Material warmed to room temperature
is best for mixing, applying, and curing. (1) Skin- Wash thoroughly with soap and
water.
(1) Cover hole opening with cardboard
and staple with stapling gun at upper (2) Eyes - Flush immediately with plenty
end of hole to be filled. of water; see a physician.

(2) Mix epoxy according to instructions (3) Inhalation - If used in a confined

and squeeze contents into hole until area, remove person to fresh air.
excess oozes out. This assures a firm
bond to wood and completely fills the

23 (FIST 4- 6)

C.6.DISTRIBUTORS.-PR-861WoodPatch/Semkits

SEMCO

5454 San Fernando Road

Glendale CA 91209

Phone (213) 247-7140

3623SixthAvenue, S. SEATTLE OFFICE

Seattle WA 98134

Phone (206) 682-6570

Semco Midwest CHICAGO OFFICE

463 West Wrightwood

Elmhurst IL 60126

Phone (312) 530-2100

2353 Henderson Mill Road N.E. #1 ATLANTA OFFICE

Atlanta GA 30345

Phone (404) 938-9746

410 Jersey Avenue GLOUCESTER OFFICE

Gloucester City NJ

Phone (609) 456-5700

(FIST 4 - 6) 24