IoT Based Electric Line Man Alert System

Malligarjunan N., Sivanesan C. M., Kalpana S., Dhanushiya S. and Pranesh R.

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Jai Shriram Engineering, College, Avinashipalayam,

Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, India

Keywords: IoT, Electric Lineman Safety, Real‑Time Monitoring, Worker Alert System.

Abstract: Innovations in worker safety and grid management are necessary, however, to ensure the security of smart

energy systems as demand soars for decarbonized energy sources. The paper, titled IoT Based Electric

Lineman Alert System for the Safety of Electric Lineman, describes about IoT based Electric Lineman

Alerting System helps to protect the safety of lineman when they are maintaining electrical lines. To fulfil

this, IoT technology is proposed for continuous monitoring of live power line status and sending real-time

alerts through a central microcontroller unit, sensors and a cloud platform. An access system requiring a

password ensures the workers' safety, as unauthorized lines cannot be activated. Trained on data until October

2023 the proposed system was experimentally validated, showing its ability to make worker safety as well as

grid reliability a top priority.

1 INTRODUCTION

Read Only: Suppose a lineman is performing

maintenance on a power line that is still active, he has

been told it is temporary power, so he thinks it is off

as he begins his work, but it is accidentally turned on.

These deaths are a real danger for electrical workers,

and the lack of communication and coordination

between maintenance staff and substation staff can

lead to tragic accidents. But one of the challenges of

the IoT is concerning with helping safety in the case

of linemen and making a system that is secure

enough to serve for the purpose of maintenance of

power lines. This system employs the 8051 family of

microcontroller as its brain. The microcontroller is

interfaced with a matrix keypad, where a lineman can

enter a unique password. The microcontroller stores a

password which is compared against the entered

password. The lineman will be able to turn the power

line ON/OFF, only if the entered password is matched

with the one stored in the system.

A lamp that provides visual feedback to the

operator is another feature of the system. Providing

nice easy to see confirmation of whether the power

line is on or off, the lamp will power when the power

line is on, and vice versa when it is off. It is a simple

yet useful feature that helps the lineman in keeping a

close eye of the state of the power line which in turn

reduces the chances of any shock accident happening.

The password protect design is not the only design

for any system control. For additional security, you

can always add an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable

Programmable Read-Only Memory) so that the

lineman can change the password. The system could

be interfaced with GSM modem in order to achieve

remote control of circuit breaker using SMS. Being

trained on data till the month of October gives you

high flexibility and control over the written reports

since now the circuit breaker can be controlled from

far away, hence there is no need of being at the

location. So, man safety for the linemen uses IoT-

based electric line man alert system. The men

balanced on a power pole, where they could easily

fall and get electrocuted, performing a risky job for

utility companies with tons of wires hanging around.

It trains you on the data until October 2023.

As much as this system will enhance safety, its

benefits go way beyond safety. It can also facilitate

the easy monitoring and management options by

integrating with the IoT which will enable data

collection and analysis in real-time. This data can be

leveraged to optimize maintenance schedules,

prevent potential issues, and enhance overall system

efficiency. It provides a promising solution to

improve the safety and efficiency of electrical

systems, thanks to its capability of being integrated

with existing infrastructure as well as complemented

by expansion in the future.

N., M., M., S. C., S., K., S., D. and R., P.

IoT Based Electric Line Man Alert System.

DOI: 10.5220/0013877700004919

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 1st International Conference on Research and Development in Information, Communication, and Computing Technologies (ICRDICCT‘25 2025) - Volume 2, pages

94-99

ISBN: 978-989-758-777-1

1.1 Objectives

The IoT based Electric line man Alert system This

project is project system which alerts the lineman

working on electric line for their safety. Linemen face

a substantial risk of electrical accidents and injuries

because of the dangerous nature of their job, and the

project helps address that. This system can be a

combination of Internet of Things (IoT) technology,

microcontroller and GSM to develop a secure and

efficient communication network for lineman.

The main aim of this project is to reduce

accidents that happen due to fault conditions and for

maintenance purposes in electrical lines. To make the

system more secure to ensure that the power can be

regulated only by the authorized personnel, concept

of OTP (One Time Password) is also used in the

system. With an increase in the number of fatal

electrical accidents of linemen, often due to a lack of

awareness as well as coordination between the

electric substation and the maintenance workers, this

system plays a key role.

Linemen can use their mobile phones to turn on

and off the power supply to use the system. Whenever

a lineman has to work on any line, (s)he sends an

SMS message to the microcontroller, which

automates the disconnecting of the power to that

particular line. When the task is done the lineman will

send another SMS to enable the power again. Also,

the microcontroller checks whether the caller

number is from a list of pre-authorized personnel so

no one can access the system.

Linking a microcontroller to this system is

extremely important. In the final circuit, we will be

using a microcontroller that will act as the central

processing unit, gathering information from the GSM

module and controlling the circuit breaker that will

switch the power on and off. The GSM module

facilitates the communication between the lineman's

mobile phone and the microcontroller, enabling the

control of the power supply from a distance.

Some of the benefits are increased safety for

lineman, fewer power outages and more efficient

maintenance operations. Instead of relying on

manual switching, the system enables linemen to

remotely control the power supply without the risk of

electrical accidents and injuries. The system also

contributes to reducing power outages, as it ensures

to shut down the power supply only if it is necessary,

thereby enabling faster and more efficient repairs.

This is the "IoT based Electric line man Alert

system are a great step towards safety technology in

the electrical industry. Overall, this approach utilizes

the strength of IoT and mobile communication to

create a robust and secure approach to conquer the

problems encountered by lineman. So, this project

can prove to be a life saver project and also help in

smooth running of electrical maintenance operations.

In Section 2, a Literature survey related to the

semua is listed. Section 3 contains the proposed

methodology, building blocks and circuit diagram.

Section 4 presents the outputs, and Section 5 is

devoted to the discussion. Section 6 contains

conclusion.

2 LITEREATURE SURVEY

IoT in our lives are making everything interactive in

our daily lifestyle. This new technology has now also

begun to infiltrate the health and safety world,

particularly in relation to electrical line work. IoT-

based electric line man alert systems development is

a new technique to prevent human death while

working in corrupted conditions. A literature review

shows a significant amount of work on the role of

IoT technology in enhancing the safety of electric line

workers. Studies have shown that real-time

monitoring and communication can also play an

important role in reducing risk associated with high

voltage lines (eg. electrocution, falls and other

equipment.) In a similar manner, the Internet of

Things (IoT)-based systems create another advantage

by leveraging the power of continuous data collection

as well as the transmission which can provide insights

of the working environment and potential hazards.

Some research papers have concentrated on

sensor-based systems development to identify and

warn line workers of upcoming destruction. Most of

these systems use several types of sensors like

proximity sensors, accelerometers, and pressure

sensors to monitor the worker's position,

movements, and distance from energized lines. If a

potential hazard is detected, the system triggers an

alarm, alerting the worker and possibly other

personnel, such as supervisors or emergency

responders."

Another important aspect to consider in an IoT-based

alert system is the integration of communication

technologies (cellular networks, satellite

communication, etc.) that allow reliable connectivity

in remote or challenging environments. Worker

people system and other stakeholder can

communicate and pass on information to one another

instantly which helps in a fast response to any arising

emergency. Moreover, the advancement of artificial

intelligence (AI) algorithms along with the insights

provided by the IoT technology have enhanced the

IoT Based Electric Line Man Alert System

state of alert systems to an extended level and helped

to make such systems more efficient. How, for

example, using data from sensors/search/other inputs

through the AI to recognize history and predict

dangers.

The literature review highlights the importance of

user-centered design aspects in the innovative

development of IoT-based alerting systems,

considering the potential social and psychological

effects of the content of the information displayed.

Although leveraging systems at this level can be

immensely valuable, it is imperative that these

systems are intuitive, easy to use and designed with

changing line worker needs in focus. Such aspects are

user interface designing, communication channel

choosing, Customizability. Finally, the literature

review supports that the IoT-based electric line man

alert system can help to a major extent to protect the

workers in electrical line safety, but we need further

research on the topic. Using sensors, communication

technologies, and AI the systems provide real-time

monitoring and alert responses to hazards allowing

line workers to work in a safer environment. With

ongoing advancements in research and development

within this area, it is likely that even more exciting

and efficient approaches to cancer care will arise in

time to come.

3 METHODOLOGY

3.1 Existing Method

As it is based on Internet of Things (IoT), it can help

in improving the maintenance workers safety while

working on power lines. Various methods and

technologies employing IoT, wireless components,

and automation have been proposed for this purpose.

3.1.1 Password Verification

A lineman enters a password via a keypad, and the

system validates its correctness.

3.1.2 LED Alert for Incorrect Password

If the entered password is incorrect, a red LED will

either blink rapidly for a few seconds or remain solid

for a short duration to indicate a failed attempt.

3.2 Proposed Method

Pressures for smarter, safer and more efficient energy

systems require innovative measures, not least to

secure the welfare of workers operating at high

voltage electric lines. This paper: (1) outlines the

design, implementation and evaluation of an

Internet-of-Things based Electric Lineman Alert

System (ELAS) to improve worker safety and grid

management. The developed system acts as an IoT-

based solution that covers sensors, MCU, cloud, and

real-time communication and alerts the users when

the line is going through some hazardous condition.

Methodology: A Detailed description of the system

development, Sensor integration, Programming,

Cloud platform management, Security measures,

Testing, Evaluation.

It has strong security measures in place including

roles and permissions as well as authentication.

3.3 Password Protection and

Authentication

Interaction with the user interface is restricted and

requires knowledge of a password to keep system

controllers outside unwanted hands. MFA (multi-

factor authentication) can also be used to added

security. This study introduces an IoT-based Electric

Lineman Alert System integrated with Arduino and

an overview approach to ensure security and safety in

this area. By using proper efficient sensors, embedded

microcontroller programming, cloud connectivity,

and encryption, the automated system enhances the

security of maintenance workers and increases the

reliability of electrical grids. However, thorough

analysis of the various components involved in such

a system can yield a highly effective and scalable

solution to manage the grid and protecting the

workers through constant testing, validation and

optimization of the system.

3.4 Building Blocks

3.4.1 Arduino Uno (at Mega

Microcontroller: Atmel Family)

The Arduino Uno is a microcontroller board which is

based on the ATmega328P (Atmel family), and it is

open-source. This includes 14 digital I/O pins, 6 analog

inputs, a 16 MHz quartz crystal, USB connection,

power socket, and reset button. Because it can be

easily programmed with the Arduino IDE, one of the

reasons it's so commonly used for embedded system

applications. It enables various sensors and modules

for IoT projects with 32 KB flash memory, 2KB

SRAM, and 1KB EEPROM. Running at 5V, it is

powered via USB or external adapter, making it a good

candidate for automation and control systems.

ICRDICCT‘25 2025 - INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN INFORMATION,

COMMUNICATION, AND COMPUTING TECHNOLOGIES

3.4.2 ESP32

Trained until October 2023 The ESP32 is a powerful

dual-core Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled

microcontroller ideal for IoT applications. It has a 240

MHz CPU, 520 KB SRAM, and external flash device

support. Essentailly, it works on 3.3V and has a large

number of GPIOs, ADCs, DACs, SPI, I2C and UART

interfaces that can easily interface with peripherals. Ꮾt

also has low power modes so it's suited for low power

and hence wireless applications. Popular features of

ESP32 include built-in security, functions like

encryption and secure boot, APIs, and it’s widely used

in industrial automation, smart home systems, and IoT-

based projects requiring remote monitoring and

control.

3.4.3 Keypad

In embedded systems, a keypad is an input device for

user interaction. A touchscreen is an input device

consisting of a 4x4 or 4x3 matrix of buttons. You

essentially press a key and it makes an electrical

connection that a microcontroller reads. Keystrokes are

commonly employed for entering passwords (security

systems, automation controls, etc.) or authenticating

something. It operates on low voltage and is interfaced

with microcontroller GPIO pins. The system

implements a scanning technique to efficiently detect

keypresses, feature that makes it well-suited for access

control and menu-driven applications.

3.4.4 Relay Module

The relay module is an electronic switch that can use

low-voltage microcontroller to control high-power

devices. It comprises an electromagnet, contacts, and a

switching mechanism that allows for the separation of

control and load circuits. Usually, it retro operates at

5V or 12V and it switches AC or DC loads, anything

from a motor to lights to the power circuit. The

module also has isolation for safety by using

optocouplers. Relay modules are commonly used in

home automation, industrial control systems and IoT

systems that involve switching operations, making

them integral parts of projects that require remote

control of electrical appliances and protection devices.

3.4.5 Alarm

An alarm is an electronic device, break the danger,

unusual conditions such as your own, or a response,

that will produce one of the same warning sounds,

although they may be set up as a visual warning.

Generally, this refers to a buzzer, siren, or speaker that

creates tone signals when activated. Sensors are used

in IoT-based safety systems to alert users of

unauthorized access, system failures, or emergencies.

They work at low voltage and can be interfaced with

microcontrollers using GPIO pins. Alarms commonly

serve in security systems, fire detection, industrial

automation, and alarming ensuring timely notifications

to users during critical events in electrical safety

applications.

3.4.6 LCD

LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display, it is a display

device used to visualize data in embedded systems.

One popular option is a 16x2 LCD which displays 16

characters per row over two rows. It works at 5V and

interfaces with the microcontrollers using parallel or

I2C bus. In IoT applications, LCDs are employed for

monitoring data in real time, displaying the status of

system or providing user interface. This allows for

clear and easy to read text output for alerts, menu

navigation, and system diagnostics. LCDs take very

low power, and are highly readable, which is why they

are the choice in facilities automation, control panels,

as well as electronic projects that require feedback for

the user.

3.4.7 Power Supply

A power supply unit supplies the voltage and current

needed to run the part of the electronic circuit.

Depending on the demands, regulated DC power

supplies (5V, 12V) are tinny used in IoT and

Embedded Systems. They can be printed from

batteries, adapters, batteries or voltage regulator

circuits like LM7805. The microcontroller, sensors,

and actuators all need to operate under a stable voltage

or power supply. It possibly also includes some form

of protection, like overvoltage, short-circuit and

thermal shutdown. In smart applications, power

supplies are critical for laboratory automation

systems, IoT devices, and electrical safety mechanisms

to function continuously.

4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This IoT-based electric lineman safety system

successfully overcomes many of the traditional

method shortcomings like real-time monitoring,

alerts, communication, etc. Here are the main

conclusions coming out of the testing and user

feedback/results:

IoT Based Electric Line Man Alert System

4.1 Enhanced Safety

IoT sensors and real-time monitoring allowed the

system to quickly identify electrical anomalies,

ensuring timely alerts to linemen and substation

operators. This greatly reduced the potential for

accidents caused by electrical faults, and improved

overall worker safety.

4.2 Efficient Communication

The mobile notifications enabled instant

communication to the lineman and substation

operator, regardless of where they were physically

located. The notification process allowed critical

issues to be addressed as soon as they were spotted,

thus, avoiding downtimes and possible grid failures.

4.3 Redundant Alert Systems

The local buzzer and the combination of the mobile

notifications enabled a layered alerting process for

workers. The buzzer track gives a local notification

while the mobile alerts make sure that supervisors or

far-off operators are up-to-date as well, leading to

better coordination and response in emergencies.

Figure 1 shows our prototype model for proposed

system.

Figure 1: Prototype Model.

4.4 Improved User Experience

The system's intuitive design and seamless

integration into existing workflows were well

received by linemen and operators. The ease of use of

the mobile app, combined with the password-

protected security features, ensured that workers

could quickly and efficiently interact with the system

without being hindered by complex procedures.

Figure 2 depicts an alert SMS in mobile.

Figure 2: Sms Indication in Mobile.

4.5 High Reliability

The system demonstrated high reliability in both

anomaly detection and alert transmission. With a

detection accuracy rate of 98% and no failures in the

mobile notification system, the proposed method

proved to be a dependable solution for ensuring

worker safety in electrical maintenance operations.

In conclusion, the proposed IoT-based electric

lineman safety system provides a robust, reliable, and

effective solution for enhancing worker safety and

improving communication within the electrical grid

is shown in figure 3.1.The combination of real-time

monitoring, multi-layered alerts, and seamless

communication between linemen and substation

operators significantly improves safety protocols,

ensuring that any electrical anomalies or faults are

detected and addressed promptly, minimizing the

risks of accidents and enhancing the overall safety of

maintenance operations.

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ICRDICCT‘25 2025 - INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN INFORMATION,

COMMUNICATION, AND COMPUTING TECHNOLOGIES

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https://www.electrosal.com/product/electric-line-man-

safety-with-password-based-circuit-breaker/

IoT Based Electric Line Breakage Detection and Alerting

... – IncraLabs https://incralabs.com/projects/p060/

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https://www.ijert.org/otp-based-lineman-security-

system.

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Scribdhttps://www.scribd.com/presentation/71815508

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IoT Based Electric Line Man Alert System