frank,
Around here the cable guys put their extension ladders right on the wires and up they go
More or less they are working on the strength of the messenger wire that supports the CATV wire.
I have to tie off when I'm above 10'so how do they(the cable company)get away with it?
Working on poles isn't just about working on poles, there are a lot of other things that come into the frey.
Having a pole snap while you are up the thing can really dent your confidence, not to mention broken bones, pole testing before you climb is essential!.
Same side of the coin, first person that climbs the ladder ties it off to the pole!.
Also ladders meant to be leaned against poles are required to have a strap at the head end (top).
One last thing is the need to know your pole rescue techniques, no matter who you are in the team.
Don't laugh, we had a guy here had a coronary once he climbed a pole.
Thank God for good pole belts.
