Climbing Wooden Poles
COURSE DESCRIPTION
In order to climb safely and efficiently, a lineworker needs to understand and practice climbing techniques. This program introduces methods used for climbing wooden poles with a fall restraint, as well as non-fall restraint climbing. The program demonstrates proper techniques for placing gaffes on a pole, safetying-on and off a pole, methods of adjusting a fall restraint while working on a pole, and the basic technique of maneuvering around a pole.
COURSE GOALS
Demonstrate and explain the basic techniques for climbing a wooden pole
Demonstrate and explain proper techniques for ascending, descending, and maneuvering around a pole with a fall restraint device
Demonstrate the proper techniques to safety-on and -off, and adjust the length of a safety strap.
Demonstrate how a climber installs a crossarm on a bare pole.
SUBJECTS AND OBJECTIVES
Pole Climbing Equipment
Recognize and identify the basic equipment used for climbing wooden poles.
Demonstrate two methods of determining the proper fit of a body belt.
Demonstrate how to determine the proper fit of climbers.
List and explain the basic components of a safety strap.
Use, Maintenance, and Inspection of Climbing Equipment
Demonstrate and explain the proper way to wear climbers.
Demonstrate and explain the techniques of sharpening, gauging, and testing gaffs.
Demonstrate and explain the process of inspecting a fall restraint device.
Explain the basic considerations for inspecting equipment prior to climbing.
Basic Climbing Techniques – Part 1
Demonstrate and explain the basic guidelines for storing and attaching a safety strap or lanyard.
Demonstrate and explain the basic techniques for belted climbing with a fall restraint.
Demonstrate and explain what to do when a gaff gets stuck in a pole.
Basic Climbing Techniques – Part 2
Demonstrate and explain the basic technique of maneuvering around a pole.
Demonstrate and explain the proper techniques for safetying-on and safetying-off.
Demonstrate and explain the basic technique of maneuvering past an obstacle.
Describe how climbing using a Buckingham SuperSqeeze, a Jelco Pole Choker, and a Bashlin Pole Lariat differs from one another.
Basic Climbing Techniques – Part 3
Explain the situations where a lineworker may be required to make a free ascent.
Demonstrate and explain the basic techniques for making a free ascent and a free descent.
Demonstrate and explain the basic methods of adjusting a safety strap while working on a pole.
Climbing on the Job
Demonstrate and explain how to install a crossarm while working from a pole.
Demonstrate and explain how to inspect a pole.