Request to contract with companies with  excellent safety record

From: John L. Henshaw
Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health
To:  Tower Owners, Carriers, Broadcasters, and Contractors

I would like to solicit your assistance and cooperation in addressing a severe problem in the communications tower industry.
A report issued by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) states that the fatality rate of tower erectors is at least 10 times higher than the average fatality rate across all industries. In addition, NIOSH and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data indicate that more than 150 people have died in this industry over the last decade. Falls from towers under construction or during maintenance cause a majority of these fatalities.

On behalf of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), I request your commitment to join me in an effort to reduce the frequency of these serious accidents and fatalities associated with communications tower work.

Specifically, I ask that you seriously consider contracting only with tower erection companies that have excellent safety and health records and that you require in your contracts the following: (1) the erector complies with all OSHA requirements, and (2) all contracts with subcontractors contain the same provision. In addition, these contracts should contain strong language regarding the importance of good safety and health programs, employee training and education, and fall prevention and fall arrest systems.

Please join with me in taking on the challenge to eliminate communication tower accidents. If you have any questions about tower construction best practices or would like additional information, please contact Mr. Stewart Burkhammer in the Directorate of Construction at (202) 693-2020.

Sincerely,
John L. Henshaw

NOTE: This generic, non-exhaustive overview is intended to serve as a useful starting point for research and analysis of the topics addressed. Proper training, professional knowledge and oftentimes licensing are required prior to anyone providing product design, selection, installation, and construction/development-related activities. This information is neither presented to instruct nor teach anyone in the proper or safe methods of any aspect of wireless design or construction. To ensure minimum exposure and to determine compliance for a safe working environment, you must obtain the advice and guidance of an industry professional.

WARNING: Failure to meet these minimum requirements and appropriate compliance responsibilities can result in serious injury or death to you or your fellow workers. All aspects of wireless construction are hazardous by nature. You have the sole responsibility to act safely and with caution prior to performing any construction-related task.