SAFETY DIRECTORS STATEMENT |
The team leader and Director of Safety & Training always maps the directions to a hospital or medical facility closest to the site, before the crews start work on any communication site in the event of an emergency. The phone numbers for the nearest EMS and Fire Services are also noted. These numbers and directions as well as an unopened first aid kit are placed in a conspicuous location along with a rescue kit, for easy emergency access. The team leader conducts and documents daily safety meetings. This report includes the type of fall protection system that is available, weather report, planned scope of work, safety topics to be covered, and job hazard assessment. This document clearly outlines the rescue plan, first aid kit location, emergency direction and phone numbers. Any special situations requiring more attention are also addressed such as: no safety climb device, active antennas, power lines, tight maneuvering areas, etc. All issues are documented. Each individual who comes on site is required to sign this form, acknowledging their understanding and compliance. These forms are filled out per site each day, and sent to the office at the end of each week. The type of hoisting system is discussed as to its capacities and anticipated loads. Rigging procedures are discussed to ensure everyone understands all aspects of the hoisting process. Capital Tower & Communication does not ride the line at any time. All of our team members have completed an eight-hour rigging course conducted by The Crosby Rigging Group, to ensure safe rigging practices. All personal fall protection equipment is inspected prior to its use and documented. An inspection form stating the condition of the equipment is filled out and signed by each climber every day the PPE is used. Faulty equipment is destroyed, discarded and replaced with new gear immediately. The rescue procedures are discussed and documented. All personnel have completed Comtrain's two day Tower Rescue & Safety course. We use the DBI Sala Fisk Descender for our rescue scenarios. All personnel have also participated in a practical training scenario utilizing this device from a height of 100 feet. This training is completed once a month to ensure familiarity with procedure. Our safety procedures are in place before we begin any construction. All crews are required to fill out and send in weekly reports. As Director of Safety & Training, I am continually in the field to assist the crews with procedures and to facilitate compliance with all safety related issues. A site inspection form is used to note any discrepancies or deviations from our safety policy. Violations are noted and addressed immediately. Varying degrees of disciplinary action are implemented dependant on the violation. Our company has adopted a "no tolerance" policy for free climbing and substance abuse. Any employees in violation of these issues are terminated immediately. All employees are training in OSHA classes per the NATE/OSHA Partnership in addition to our rigorous in- house preparation. All field employees are trained in OSHA 10 and all supervisor employees are trained in OSHA 30. All members are certified in American Red Cross First Aid, CPR, Comtrain and RSI RF Awareness. All team have certifications for installing Commscope, Andrews, Eupen and RFS Connectors. Capital Tower staffs the most certified, professional, communication site specialists in the industry. Michael S Fergus Director of Safety & Training Capital Tower & Communications Inc. |