Tower Tips
• Towers have design load limitations. Make very sure the
tower you consider has the capacity to safely handle the
antenna(s) you intend to install in the kind of environment that
is applicable to your location.
• The antenna must be located in such a position that it
cannot possibly tangle with power lines, both during normal
operation or if the structure should fall.
• Sufficient yard space must be available to position a guyed
tower properly. A rule of thumb is that the guy anchors should
be between 60% and 80% of the tower height in distance from
the base of the tower.
• Provisions must be made to keep children from climbing
the support.
• Soil conditions at the tower site should be investigated.
The footings need to be designed around actual soil conditions,
particularly on a rocky site.
• Beware of used towers. Have them professionally inspected
and contact the manufacturer for installation criteria.
• Check with your local building officials.

• Liability may be increased with a tower installation.
Check with your insurer to ensure your coverage is adequate.
• Make sure you have all the tools needed before starting.
Some specialized tools (such as a gin pole) may be required.
• The assembly crew as well as those climbing the tower
during erection must wear hard hats and use appropriate personal
protective equipment including gloves, boots, climbing
belt or harness. Don't forget that lifelines are needed when
the belt is unattached from the tower while moving.
• Assign someone in the erection crew to monitor the use
of safety equipment.
• After the tower is installed, keep the installation safe. Inspection
and maintenance recommended by the tower's manufacturer
should be carefully followed.
• If making attachments to houses or installations on roofs,
have a qualified person determine that the method is adequate
and the loading conditions are satisfactory.
• Avoid metal ladders if there are any utility lines in the
vicinity. Assume that any line is energized--including cable
television and telephone lines.