Pole Climbing Class
The need for occupational and safety training never ceases. After evaluation of future needs and present circumstances, the Engineering Department determined that its employees who are responsible for wire maintenance, where climbing of poles would be necessary in the ordinary performance of their duties, should receive refresher training both in the techniques used in climbing poles and the proper use of climbing gear. Not an ordinary kind of training, the desired course was found in Canada, at the Electrical and Utility Safety Association (EUSA) facility in Mississauga, Ontario.
Eight Engineering Department employees drove to Canada and were given three days of intense training. The mornings were spent in the classroom with the instructor, Prevention Services Consultant Rodney Gegear. The instruction was structured, and included goal setting, discussion and video presentation, climbing gear familiarization and progress quizzes. Some of the newer people were not too familiar with the newest types of gear, and much classroom time was devoted to gaining the desired understanding.
Afternoons found the Guilford people at the outdoor training facility - where the poles are. Climbing and fall protection procedures and systems were extensively reviewed and practiced. There was ample opportunity for personal evaluation by the instructor, which proved useful to all. Two types of climbing equipment of relatively new design were determined to be of particular application to the railroad, the Miller Stop Fall Protection System and the “Pole Shark” Climbing System. These are being acquired.
One of the techniques learned was a pole top rescue, which simulated an event involving sudden illness resulting in disability with the disabled one unable to descend from the pole without aid. A 140 lb. mannequin was lashed to the pole and the students had to safely bring the “ill” party down safely. Also taught was the method of temporarily securing a pole broken at the base, using 4 ropes, such that it could be climbed in safety and with confidence.
A critique session was held at the end of the day, which gave opportunity to review what had been taught and to answer questions, as well as to rest muscles which had been challenged by all the climbing. Those attending were in complete agreement that the training was excellent and would be of great value in the years ahead.
