What is the purpose of temporary crossarms in the changeout process?

• A. They stabilize permanent crossarms during changeout.
• B. They permanently replace old crossarms.
• C. They reduce the need to deenergize lines.
• D. They never contact the old crossarm.

Answer: (A)

Temporary crossarms act as a temporary stabilizing brace to hold the new crossarm and its hardware in the correct position while the old crossarm is removed and the new one is installed. This keeps conductors, insulators, and attachment points properly spaced and aligned, preventing movement that could cause damage, misalignment, or safety hazards during the changeout. By providing this secure support, workers can complete the swap smoothly with the line prepared for the final fastenings and reattachment. Once the permanent crossarm is securely in place and all work is finished, the temporary crossarms are removed. They are not permanent replacements, and their use does not eliminate the need to deenergize the line for safety; their purpose is strictly to stabilize and align during the changeout.