Abstract
Abstract Paper aims Conduct a set of case studies on risk management in telecommunication companies, in order to reduce the risks of accidents. Originality The present study furthers the discussion of risk management during the maintenance of telecommunication towers. Research method Three teams were assessed during their maintenance work. The risks of accidents were identified through self-made questionnaires and the checklist structured from 95 items from Brazilian regulatory and technical norms. The analysis was conducted by using the Hazard Rating Number and the OHSAS hierarchy of risk control, finally comparing the results with the OSHA´s potential draft of the standard addressing telecommunication tower safety. Main findings The main risks of accidents were: falling objects; falls from height; electrocution; and attacks from animals. Only 20% of occupational safety items were in conformity. Implications for theory and practice Suggestions on control measures were given and discussed for all four risks of accidents.
Highlights
The globalization and modern lifestyle require high utilization of technologies for long-distance communication, independent of the location on which humans might be encountered
Due to high risks to which maintenance workers of telecommunication towers are exposed, and a low number of studies in relation to occupational risks management, the aim of this study was to conduct a set of case studies in order to identify, analyze and evaluate risks and give suggestions on control measures which should be applied in order to eliminate or reduce the risks of accidents
Support from local persons would benefit to improving occupational safety and health and even shortening the working period
Summary
The globalization and modern lifestyle require high utilization of technologies for long-distance communication, independent of the location on which humans might be encountered To attend to this need, telecommunication companies spread its service throughout the world, building structures for implementing transmitting devices (antennas). It is estimated that there are 97.296 mobile telephone stations in Brazil (Agência Nacional de Telecomunicações, 2020; Teleco – Inteligência em Telecomunicações, 2020), and 1,018,132 antennas located on top of the structures in the USA (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 2004). Such antennas are normally mounted on roof perimeters of existing buildings or on telecommunication towers. Maintenance activities include reinforcing the structure, painting
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
