Operations

Reprinted Courtesy of Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corpororation
Compiled by Peter Green - IEEE

Churchill Falls is a modern power installation utilizing mechanical, electrical and communications systems and civil structures designed and maintained according to modern techniques and standards. The 265 staff members are trained appropriately to operate and maintain the reservoir dykes and spillways, the power plant and switchyard, the transmission lines, the network of roads, and townsite housing and service facilities.

 
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Control Room (Churchill Fall (Labrador) Corporation Limited)

The variety of work requirements demands that staff are equally versatile in their duties and knowledge. A communications technician, for example, will work on troposcatter and point to point microwave systems, UHF and VHF systems, satellite ground stations and numerous other smaller systems.

While outside contractors and specialists are used, the security of the operation and the well-being of the community demands that adequate staff are available to trouble shoot and repair every aspect of the operation.

The operating staff is comprised of engineers, supervisors, technicians and technologists, electricians, mechanics, welders, linespersons, station operators, heavy equipment operators, helicopter pilots, carpenters, fire and security officers, painters, utility workers and janitors. Providing services also requires accountants, clerical staff, warehouse workers, retail clerks, personnel and industrial relations staff, teachers, and medical staff.

The majority of staff are hired within the province and there is close cooperation between CF(L)Co and the post-secondary school system. An active apprenticeship and training program enables staff to achieve the skill levels required to maintain and operate the sophisticated plant equipment and other facilities.
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Generator Floor (Churchill Fall (Labrador) Corporation Limited)

Loss control is part of the philosophy that guides CF(L)Co and contributes significantly to the stability and well being of the company and its employees. The prevention and control of occupational injury and illness, property damage, security breaches and pollution are integrated into every facet of management and operations. Specific committees and training programs have been established for every major area of concern.

During the period 1975 to 1991 (inclusive) CF(L)Co produced a total of 595 billion kilowatt hours of electricity representing an average annual production of 35 billion kilowatt hours. This represents the energy equivalent of 58 million barrels of bunker (sea) oil annually (or 158 thousand barrels of oil per day) at a conventional steam electric generating station.