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Ensure a Safe Climb for NLI Lineworkers

By Elissa Glassman

NLI Lineman Marc Hull practices safe climb pole top rescue as part of NLI’s ongoing lineman safety training. Photo courtesy of Northern Lights

Here are a few steps NLI members can take to protect and help ensure the safety of our line crews on the job.

NLI line crews climb poles on a consistent basis, and whenever people hang signs on the poles with tacks or nails or use poles for other purposes, it can be dangerous for the line crews.

Even though a sign may have been torn down from a pole, the nails can remain and end up tearing or cracking a line worker’s glove, causing exposure to electric current. If the line worker slips, serious lacerations and injuries can occur.

According to Idaho statute 18-7029, placing posters or promotional material on public or private property without permission is unlawful. Any violation of this statute is considered a misdemeanor.

Please remember:

  • Do not hang signs or nail objects to the pole. The nails or staples could also cause a lineman to slip when he climbs the pole.
  • Do not hang birdhouses, basketball hoops, or antenna on electrical poles. Line crews will have great difficulty climbing around them, creating a hazard for a line worker, who may slip or fall.
  • Do not attach fences to the pole, or take dirt from around the pole.
  • Please use common sense around utility poles. Show your appreciation for those who work so hard to make sure you have reliable electric service.