Tower Safety
Tower safety systems, such as access ladders, step bolts, and other safety features, are designed to ensure safe and efficient access and maintenance for technicians working on towers. These systems provide secure climbing support, stable platforms, and fall protection to reduce the risk of accidents.
​
Climbing Facilities
Climbing facilities are engineered to provide safe, structured access to tower heights, enabling technicians to perform maintenance, inspections, and repairs securely. Here’s a closer look at key components:
​
Access Ladders: These are vertical ladders built directly into the tower structure or attached to it, serving as the primary climbing route for technicians. Access ladders are designed to withstand heavy use and environmental exposure, often constructed from durable materials like galvanized steel to prevent corrosion. They also meet specific spacing and load requirements to ensure safety and stability.
Safety Hoops: Also known as “cages” or “ladder cages,” safety hoops are semi-circular guards attached to the back of access ladders, encircling the climber. These hoops provide an added layer of protection, preventing accidental backward falls and offering some support if a climber loses their footing. Safety hoops are especially common on ladders over 20 feet tall to reduce fall risks during ascent and descent.
​
Step Bolts: These are robust metal pegs or bolts that are inserted into the tower structure, providing footholds when space or design doesn’t allow for a traditional ladder. Step bolts are frequently used on towers with unconventional shapes or in areas where standard ladders are impractical. Installed at safe intervals, they create a secure climbing path, and their wide, treaded surfaces help reduce slippage.
​
Work/Rest Platforms: Located at intervals along the tower height, work/rest platforms provide climbers with a stable area to rest, adjust equipment, or carry out tasks that require a secure stance. These platforms are essential for long climbs, allowing technicians to pause and reduce fatigue. They’re also used as workstations for detailed tasks that require precise handling of tools or equipment.
​
Together, these climbing facility components are integral to tower safety, supporting safe movement, reducing fatigue, and ensuring that climbers can access all parts of the tower as efficiently and securely as possible.
Anti Climb Shields
Anti-climb systems prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing a tower, making them ideal for locations such as school sites or other areas where public safety is a priority.
​
Gord Telecom's anti-climb systems are typically made from galvanized sheet metal, a material chosen for its durability, corrosion resistance, and long-lasting performance in outdoor environments.
​
Galvanized sheet metal is coated with a layer of zinc, which acts as a protective barrier against rust and corrosion. This is especially important for towers exposed to harsh weather, as it significantly extends the lifespan of the anti-climb system
​
The galvanizing process doesn’t compromise the inherent strength of sheet metal. This material is tough enough to withstand physical impacts and environmental wear, making it a reliable deterrent in high-traffic or vulnerable areas
​
Galvanized sheet metal requires minimal maintenance. Its zinc coating prevents oxidation, reducing the need for regular upkeep and making it an economical choice over time.
​
The smooth finish of galvanized sheet metal allows for easy addition of warning signs or bright coatings, improving visibility. In areas where extra safety precautions are necessary, this can help reinforce the anti-climb system as a security measure.
​
Overall, galvanized sheet metal combines strength with longevity, making it an ideal material for anti-climb shields designed to safeguard public spaces and prevent unauthorized access to towers.
Fall Arrest Safety
This safety system is compatible with all towers, monopoles, and access ladders.
A complete system includes an aluminum safety rail, a fall arrest trolley, and all necessary mounting hardware (bolts, nuts, and washers).
​
Trolley
-
Equipped with a locking brake pawl that attaches securely to the climber's harness.
-
Moves freely along the safety rail when the climber is in a normal climbing position.
-
Automatically arrests falls upon detecting a sudden downward motion, engaging the brake instantly.
-
In the event of a slip, the trolley remains locked in place until the force is released.
-
Stays stationary once disconnected from the climber’s harness.
​
Safety Rail
-
Designed for quick and easy installation anywhere on the tower leg, adaptable to most structures.
-
Made of lightweight, high-tensile aluminum for durability.
-
Available in standard 20-foot sections, with smaller pieces also offered for added versatility.
