National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) yesterday announced that a new standard establishing minimum criteria for safe work practices and training for personnel performing work on communication structures has been established. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) A10.48-2016 Standard – Criteria for Safety Practices with the Construction, Demolition, Modification and Maintenance of Communications Structures is a ‘game changer’ for the industry, according to NATE Executive Director Todd Schlekeway. “It has the distinction of being the first comprehensive standard encompassing the entire tower construction, service and maintenance industry,” Schlekeway said.
In addition to telecom towers, the standard covers broadcast and other similar structures supporting communication related equipment.
The complete construction and use standard thoroughly addresses the following categories:
- General
- References
- Definitions
- Pre-Job Planning
- Job Site Conditions
- Fall Protection
- Radio Frequency/Electromagnetic Energy
- Base Mounted Hoists Used for Overhead Material Lifting and Personnel Lifting
- Personnel Lifting Accessories and Processes
- Rigging
- Gin Poles and Other Lifting Devices
- Climbing Facilities and Access
- Structural Construction Loading Considerations
- Training Program
- Capstan Hoist
- Demolition
- Helicopter Used for Lifting Loads
“The final version of the A10.48 Standard is a by-product of over 6 years of hard work and diligence by a group of dedicated organizations and subject matter experts,” stated NATE A10.48 Subcommittee member Don Doty, Regulatory Compliance Advisor with FDH Velocitel. “The release of the A10.48 Standard is one of the most significant developments to have occurred in my 43 years working in the industry,” added Doty.
“The A10.48 Standard will provide the ultimate road map for companies and workers to adhere to in order to raise the bar on safety and quality in the industry,” said NATE A10.48 Subcommittee member Kathy Stieler from Electronics Research, Inc. “This transformative standard will fill a huge void that currently exists right now in the industry,” Stieler explained.
Representatives from NATE, ASSE and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) will be providing additional information and educational opportunities regarding the new A10.48 Standard in the coming weeks. Additionally, NATE will be providing an update in the near future to members and industry stakeholders on how to purchase the A10.48 Standard when it is officially published.
“It’s a great day to be affiliated with NATE as the A10.48 Standard represents yet another tangible reminder of the leadership role the Association is playing in the marketplace,” stated Executive Director Todd Schlekeway. “NATE is proud to have played a crucial role in establishing the standard and helping get this valuable resource across the goal line.”
Reader Interactions