Take Safety Precautions To Prevent Accidents on Towers

In 2013 alone, there have been 10 fatalities in the wireless tower industry. Many of these accidents have occurred because tower techs have fallen off the wireless towers. The National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) recognizes that these accidents are preventable and have shared their “Tower Site Hazard Recognition Guide.”

In this guide, NATE has provided information to help employees of tower owners, carriers, broadcasters, general contractors, and tower erectors recognize the hazards of tower sites. Being aware of potential dangers will help reduce the number of accidents in the tower industry.

In NATE’s comprehensive guide, they discuss the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) “10 Most Frequently Cited Standards in Fiscal Year 2012.” The first one was Fall Protection (29 CFR 1926.501). There are plenty of precautions to take to prevent workers from falling. Take a look at the Hazard Recognition Guide for a detailed look at all the preventative measures workers should take. One of the major safety measures workers should take is using proper equipment and wearing the correct apparel.

“Appropriate footwear is essential for workers on tower sites when the potential exists for hazards caused by falling or rolling objects, or objects piercing the sole, or the possibility of electrical hazards. Proper footwear on tower sites also protects employee’s feet from physical/skeletal injuries resulting from climbing and working on towers and related structures,” NATE’s safety guide explains.

NATE is a non-profit trade organization dedicated to facilitating safety, education and standards for the tower erection, service and maintenance industry. In that regard, NATE compiles safety resources available to members to assist them in the development of their safety and health programs. To take a look at the Tower Site Hazard Recognition Guide, please click here.