Question T0B07
From subelement T0 - T0B
Which of the following is an important safety rule to remember when using a crank-up tower?
Why is this correct?
Crank-up towers have telescoping sections that can collapse unexpectedly if not properly secured. Option C is correct because these towers must either be fully retracted or have mechanical safety locks installed before climbing. Options A and B are false - towers should be painted for corrosion protection and must be grounded for lightning safety. Option D is incorrect since A and B contain false statements.
Memory tip
Remember the telescoping danger pattern: any tower with moving sections needs either full retraction or positive mechanical locks before climbing. The key insight is that gravity plus wind can cause catastrophic collapse of unsecured telescoping sections under a climber's weight.
Learn more
Crank-up towers operate like telescoping antennas - multiple nested sections that slide within each other. When extended, these sections are held in position by cables and pulleys, not rigid mechanical connections. Without safety locks, the tower sections can telescope downward under load, potentially trapping or dropping a climber. This is why Part 97 safety practices emphasize positive mechanical securing methods before any tower work begins.
Think about it
Why do you think regular fixed towers don't require the same retraction or locking safety rule that crank-up towers do?