Which device is used by linemen to tension wire and cable during installation and repairs?

• A. Turnbuckles
• B. Beams clamps
• C. Periodic inspection
• D. Grips

Answer: (D)

Grips are the tool linemen use to grip and apply tension to wire and cable as it’s being installed or repaired. They bite securely into the conductor so you can pull with a winch or come-along without slipping or crushing the wire, giving you controlled tension while you position and splice or attach conductors. Different types exist for various conductor sizes and tasks, but the core idea is a secure grip that transfers the pulling load safely to the line.

Turnbuckles, while useful for adjusting and maintaining tension after a conductor is in place, don’t grip the conductor to apply the initial tension. Beam clamps are for attaching to structures, not for tensioning conductors, and periodic inspection isn’t a tensioning device.