Code of practice for selection, handling and erection of concrete poles for overhead power and telecommunication lines
1974 Edition

The standard advises against lifting poles from a single central point to avoid stress concentration and potential cracking. For poles weighing up to 500 kg, use two lifting points located at one-fifth of the length from the bottom and one-fourth from the top. For poles exceeding 500 kg, lift from four points positioned at one-sixth and one-third the length from the bottom, and two-fifths and one-fifth from the top. Mechanical lifting devices like cranes are preferred, but manual handling is permitted if done carefully following the outlined procedures.

Concrete poles should be installed so that their major axis — the axis with the greatest moment of inertia — aligns parallel to the direction of the overhead line. This orientation maximizes resistance to bending forces caused by conductor tension. The pole length and planting depth should consider line voltage, required clearance, expected conductor sag, and cross-arm placement, complying with the Indian Electricity Rules and relevant standards.

Foundation depth depends on soil characteristics and pole dimensions. For non-cohesive soils such as sandy ground, concreting must extend from the bottom of the excavation up to 150 mm above the planting depth to provide resistance against overturning forces. Prestressed concrete poles require a concrete base plate at the trench bottom, typically 450 mm by 450 mm and 75 mm thick under normal soil conditions. Alternatives like reinforced concrete or timber baulks of 800 mm by 300 mm by 100 mm may be used with approval. Concrete preparation and curing should follow IS 456 guidelines to ensure quality.

Yes, poles exceeding the length of the transport vehicle by more than 3.5 meters must be loaded with balanced overhangs at both ends to maintain stability during transit. Additionally, bundling four or more poles together enhances safety. Loading supports such as wooden sleepers or steel rails should be placed at multiple points inside the vehicle to allow gentle dragging of poles using ropes. When poles are fully contained inside the vehicle and laid flat with the minor axis vertical, the number of wooden battens between layers should be increased by 25%, with cushioning materials like straw or waste gunny used to prevent damage.

Stays must be installed before the conductors are tensioned to their working load to stabilize the poles and prevent displacement or overturning. This is especially crucial in areas prone to high winds or poor soil conditions. The erection typically uses the direct pole method, and stays should be firmly fixed during this process. Additional foundation reinforcements such as concrete base plates and concreting around the base may be necessary in challenging soil or climatic conditions.