In an overhead power line switch, critical switch adjustment dimensions, switch position, switch status and other switch parameters are sensed by a plurality of particularly placed sensors, allowing determination as to whether the switch has operated correctly at critical points of the switch. The sensors also provide critical maintenance indication as to the operational status of the switch. In a preferred arrangement, the sensors are positioned to sense at least one of whether the contact blade is in a toggled closed position or a switch-open position, whether the contact blade is aligned with the clip assembly, the contact blade depth in the clip assembly, etc. The monitoring system is preferably provided with a remote terminal unit delivering sensor data to a remote operating facility.