At YTEL, safety isn’t just a policy — it’s a priority. We’re proud to announce that Hunter and Justin from our Operations Team have earned their Train-the-Trainer certification in Tower Climbing Safety, empowering them to train fellow technicians in safe climbing and descending practices.
Recently, they led a hands-on training session, guiding a technician through proper tower descent techniques — a critical skill for working safely at height. These sessions are more than just practice; they’re part of a larger mission to protect our team and elevate safety standards across the industry.
Why Tower Safety Matters
Tower climbing is one of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S., and the statistics are sobering:
- 📊 Over 65% of tower technicians have worked on a site where someone was injured. [EL PASO CO…ASSESSMENT]
- 😔 Nearly 1 in 5 know someone who has died on the job. [EL PASO CO…ASSESSMENT]
- ⚠️ Tower climbers are 10x more likely to die on the job than other construction workers. [County of…y Services]
- 🌧️ 73% of climbers report being required to work in dangerous weather conditions, and 68% at night. [EL PASO CO…ASSESSMENT]
These risks are compounded by tight deadlines, inconsistent safety protocols, and a lack of standardized training across subcontractors.
Building a Safer Future
With Hunter and Justin certified to train others, YTEL is taking proactive steps to ensure every technician is equipped with:
- ✅ Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- ✅ Emergency rescue procedures
- ✅ Fall protection systems
- ✅ Pre-climb safety inspections
- ✅ Clear communication protocols
According to OSHA, falls from height, equipment failure, and inclement weather are among the top hazards in tower work. That’s why comprehensive training and adherence to safety standards are non-negotiable. [Copy of Ru…ch Guide 1]
Our Commitment
We believe that knowledge saves lives, and by investing in internal trainers like Hunter and Justin, we’re reinforcing a culture of safety, accountability, and excellence.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to strengthen our team and protect the people who keep our networks running.
YTEL Voices
YTEL Voices is the collective voice of Yurok Telecommunications Corporation, sharing stories, updates, and insights on how technology is strengthening the Yurok Tribe. From expanding broadband access to preserving cultural traditions in a digital world, we explore the ways connection shapes our present and future.
The Yurok people have always stayed connected—through the river, through storytelling, through the wisdom passed down across generations. Today, that connection continues in new ways. As YTELbuilds a high-speed internet network across the reservation, we are creating new opportunities while ensuring that the values and traditions of the Yurok Tribe remain at the heart of everything we do.
Follow along as we share the journey of bringing reliable, community-led internet to the Yurok people.
