A range of informative and interesting topics that are relevant to tower contractors were discussed on Wednesday at the well-attended NATE Wireless Industry Network (WIN) regional conference. NATE WIN Great Plains Regional Ambassador Pete Hagstrom welcomed attendees and highlighted the benefits and programs provided under the NATE WIN auspices.
Drew Martin of ConcealFab made an in-depth presentation with numerous examples on identifying and mitigating passive intermodulation interference at macro tower and rooftop cell sites, and available solutions.
Insurance experts, Bruce Eades and Dennis Robinson of the Insurance Office of America and Will Teubel of TrueNorth Companies offered pointers on how to navigate the increasingly difficult insurance landscape that is being roiled by extensive litigation. One important recommendation was to ensure that multiple cameras are installed in work vehicles to record any incidents for insurance adjusters. Another recommendation encouraged contractors to regularly consult their insurance brokers for advice and guidance on how to qualify for favorable insurance rates.
A panel on broadband project funding moderated by Inside Towers’ John Celentano with Joseph Le of the Kansas Broadband Development Office discussed qualification criteria and rollout plans of BEAD funding allocations in each of the Great Plains states.
Tony Castro, Compliance Officer of OSHA Region VII office, outlined important steps that contractors can take to minimize their chances for an incident investigation, including documenting worker training certifications, adopting on the job safety best practices and answering honestly any questions an investigator may ask.
In another session, Stephanie Brewer of USA Telecom Insurance Services, John Lamond of GME Supply and Sheri O’Dell-Deuer of Deuer Development elaborated on the role of the NATE Safety Equipment Manufacturers Committee testing in advancing climbing safety equipment standards.
In a final session, Jeff Gayhart of RONIN Revolution discussed the benefits that tower climbers gain by using power ascenders to reduce fatigue, enhance climbing and descending safety, and to help extend their careers.
Attendees generally agreed that the conference was very productive.
By John Celentano, Inside Towers Business Editor
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