The Most Common Injuries Sustained in Tower Climbing Jobs
Taking place hundreds of feet above the ground, it’s easy to see why the tower climbing and maintenance industry is one of the most dangerous career paths in the world. In fact, the startling heights alone are enough to deter many individuals from careers in this field. However, this isn’t the only hazard climbers must face, and the collective risks make it infinitely more crucial that these individuals know how to keep themselves safe while on the job. These are some of the most common injuries in tower climbing jobs and how to avoid them.
Trauma from Falls
As mentioned above, heights pose the biggest immediate threat to any tower climber on their way up to the job site. Even a slight stumble while climbing can result in very serious traumatic events that may require rescue and immediate medical attention. As such, tower climbers are required to wear personal fall protection equipment that will catch them and cushion the impact of a fall. These items are specially designed to distribute a person’s weight and reduce the likelihood of being scratched or burned by the harness while the climber is waiting for rescue. However, it’s important to mention that these devices only work if they’re cared for properly, and knowing when to replace them could mean the difference between life and death.
Electrical Burns
Electrical line-related injuries are also a very real possibility for tower climbers, as they’re often required to work on or near these dangerous systems. When not shut down properly, workers can suffer painful burns and nicks from handling electrical lines, some of which may require hospital treatment. To mitigate this possibility, professionals receive special training on how to work with these lines and how to stay safe around them. This includes knowing when certain circuits are no longer live, so they can complete their maintenance tasks.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Another one of the most common injuries in tower climbing jobs is carpal tunnel syndrome. While it might be easy to overlook, given all the other hazards these workers need to deal with, this ailment can set in quickly and can be very painful. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the swelling of the carpal tendon in the wrist, which creates pressure along the nerves that travel through the hand. This creates sharp, shooting pain whenever an individual goes to perform any strenuous or repetitive tasks, such as climbing and handling tools. Unfortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome develops when an individual strains their tendon, so any harsh action can agitate the condition. Luckily, individuals can soothe the pain with frequent breaks and regular wrist stretches.
