Antenna Assembly & Construction can be dangerous

Before erecting an antenna you will need to assess the potential risks. You should also ensure you have the appropriate safety equipment.

Working on towers requires specialised skills and is best performed by professional riggers with working at height qualifications and experience. Call on help from an experienced friend or your local club for assistance.

Never undertake working at heights alone.

(Image courtesy of Gateway magazine)

Some hazards to consider

What would happen if your tower, mast, or antenna fell down? Consider the risks to people and property if any components of your antenna structures were to break or fall?

Ensure that your antenna is clear of power lines. In normal operation or if the antenna and its supporting structure were to fail, ensure there would be no contact with power lines – Look up and Live!

Working at heights. Risks include falling, dropping tools and equipment on people below, etc. Use the correct climbing equipment such as a climbing harness, hard hat, gloves, and a secured ladder. Use lanyards on tools and on any heavy loose equipment you are installing or removing. Do not work alone – a second set of eyes may prevent an accident.

Lifting and lowering large antennas and other equipment – can require specialised equipment and skills.

Before working on any existing antennas, disconnect these from any transmitting equipment. Perform regular inspections of supporting structures, feedlines, and the antenna itself for signs of failure such as corrosion, weathering, loose hardware etc.

Do not touch a transmitting antenna. Above 5 watts, antennas can cause what is known as “RF Burns” which are caused by EMR current penetration and can be severe.

This information is general advice only.  Working at height and in potentially dangerous situations is often best performed by a professional rigger.

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The Foundation Level Study Guide

Information on Antenna Safety can be found from Chapter 9 on Page 78 in this book

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ACMA Syllabus Extract

According to the ACMA Foundation Syllabus, the required knowledge on this topic is:

9.15  Antennas and Safety

Recall that it is important for all people (and animals) to be kept at a safe distance from antennas.

9.16  Radio Waves Can Be Dangerous

Recall that electromagnetic radiation (EMR) can be dangerous and higher frequencies and power levels and proximity to the source increase the danger.

9.17  Safe Distances

Recall that a safe distance from an antenna depends on the ERP, operating frequency, antenna type and orientation.

9.18  Antenna Erection

Recall that antenna erection is potentially dangerous and should be carried out by suitably qualified people.

9.19  Securing and Siting antennas

Recall that antennas and their fittings must be suitably located and secured and must never be connected to, or sited close to, mains poles and lines.

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