Which of the following is an important safety precaution to observe when putting up an antenna tower?
Wear a ground strap connected to your wrist at all times
Incorrect. Wearing a ground strap on your wrist is primarily related to preventing electrostatic discharge when handling electronic components; it is not relevant to antenna tower installation safety.
Insulate the base of the tower to avoid lightning strikes
Incorrect. Insulating the base of the tower would not effectively protect against lightning strikes; instead, proper grounding is necessary for lightning protection.
Look for and stay clear of any overhead electrical wires
Correct. Avoiding overhead electrical wires is crucial because contact with live electrical lines can be fatal; this is why this answer is correct.
All these choices are correct
Incorrect. Not all choices presented are correct; specifically, wearing a ground strap and insulating the base are not appropriate safety measures for erecting an antenna tower.
Explanation
The question addresses an important safety precaution when installing an antenna tower. Antenna towers are a common infrastructure for amateur radio enthusiasts, providing the necessary height to improve signal reach and communication quality. However, with their installation comes significant safety risks, particularly when it comes to electrical hazards. This specific question highlights the importance of being aware of and avoiding overhead electrical wires when erecting an antenna tower. Electrical wires can be dangerous if contact is made during installation, leading to serious injury or even death. The correct answer, ‘Look for and stay clear of any overhead electrical wires,’ is critical for ensuring the safety of both the installer and those around them.
T0B04 2022-2026