UFC 3-560-01
6 December 2006
Including change 1, 7 December 2006
The best climbing space to avoid all live wires, grounded wires, and signal
circuits.
10-4.1.3 Ensure there is an ample supply of rubber protective equipment on hand to
completely protect the worker on the pole from all live wires, grounded wires, and signal
circuits.
10-4.1.4 Only one worker is permitted to ascend or descend a pole at any one time.
Other workers must be in place on the pole or on the ground before the worker ascends
or descends the pole.
10-4.1.5 Extraordinary care is required of the workers when it becomes necessary for
one worker to work above the other.
10-4.1.6 Before climbing poles, ladders, scaffolds, or other elevated structures; riding
span wires, messengers or cables; or entering cable cars, boatswain chairs or similar
equipment; each worker must first ensure the structure or device is strong enough to
sustain the worker's weight.
10-4.2
Pole Inspection Before Climbing. The type of pole to be climbed affects
the precautions that the worker must take in regards to climbing equipment and
procedures. All types of poles must be safe to climb in terms of being strong enough to
bear the weight of the climbers and their tools, and in having adequate climbing space.
Before allowing anyone to climb on a pole, the authorized individual-in-charge must
ensure the pole is inspected, i.e. hammer tested and pike pole rocking test, and that it
can be safely climbed based on the following:
10-4.2.1 Determine age, physical condition, and treatment of the pole. Do not climb a
pole unless you are sure it can safely hold your weight. Before climbing, inspect the
pole for the following:
General condition buckling at the ground line or an unusual angle may
indicate pole has rotted or is broken.
Cracks horizontal cracks perpendicular to the grain of the pole may
weaken pole. Vertical ones can pose a hazard to the climber and
employees should keep their gaffs away from them while climbing.
Holes hollow spots or woodpecker holes can reduce the strength of a
wood pole.
Rotting and decay are cutout hazards and are possible indication of the
age and internal condition of the pole.
10-12
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