(UPDATED on 8/14/12 @ 11:40 a.m.) I can not vouch for this entire video as I was unable to watch it all (fear of extreme heights with no PFAS). I did listen to all (with a few stomach turning peeks here and there) and there are some interesting comments about “free climbing” and that OSHA accepts this practice (????). This is absolutely UNREAL and to see it done with ZERO fall protection is just crazy!
I could not even imagine doing this with fall protection – so my hat is off to those who have the courage to do this as a living, but this just seems wrong – maybe I am wrong! I have no experience in this type of work, but as a FF/EMT I did help pick up pieces of a worker who fell only 300′ from a tower in Murray, Ky in the early 90’s. Even then I wondered why they did not use harnesses as that tower actually had the ladder ratcheting system. Those like me that “respect heights” may want to be seated when you watch this video and keep your sweaty hands off your keyboard!!!
PLEASE NOTE: The National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) issued a statement in 2010 denouncing this video that suggested “free climbing” communication towers is both common and accepted by OSHA. NATE said the decision to post the video, shot with a helmet-mounted camera and showing two broadcast techs climbing a broadcast tower, was “misguided” and “its messages should not be given credence by any viewer.” NATE’s efforts to establish a culture of safety in the wireless and broadcast tower industry encourages everyone involved with tower work to adhere to recognized safe practices. The video in question is an example of a climber who is either unaware of recognized safety practices or is unwilling to take the time to protect his life and the life of his co-worker in the video. By extension it encourages others to employ unsafe climbing techniques not endorsed by either OSHA or NATE. Contractors who refuse to operate safely should never be hired. This video is one more example of why the efforts of NATE, our membership and industry partners are imperative. NATE, the industry’s leader in tower safety, continues to pursue working relationships with carriers, broadcasters and other tower owner/operators to ensure that only qualified contractors set foot on tower sites. The Association has worked with OSHA to develop safety best practices and educational programs to ensure every tower worker goes home safely every day. Companies which allow free climbing and other violations of recognized safety practices are placing lives in danger and jeopardize tower work services. NATE is looking forward to OSHA’s statement clarifying this matter for the industry.