Cell Tower Technician how-to

How to Climb a Tower Safely

100% tie-off is the rule that keeps climbers alive.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

100% tie-off is the rule that keeps climbers alive. In short: inspect; review; confirm, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Inspect your harness and equipment.

  2. Review the rescue plan and site hazards.

  3. Confirm RF power is reduced or shut off as required.

  4. Connect to the safety climb or use two lanyards.

  5. Climb steadily with 100% tie-off.

  6. Connect to an anchor before working at height.

Safety reminders for cell tower technicians

  • Maintain 100% tie-off
  • Have a trained rescue plan for every climb
  • Follow RF safety procedures
  • Stop work for lightning and high winds

Authorized climber · Competent climber · 100% tie-off · Lanyard · Rescue plan · Antenna: see the full cell tower technician glossary.

More cell tower technician how-to guides

Enroll in trainingTake fit quiz