Answer to Question #4100 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Are there regulations that require that access to radiofrequency (RF) emitting towers be controlled?  I can find information requiring the posting of the area with a sign saying that an RF hazard exists but nothing saying that an interlock, or gate, should be used to prevent someone from climbing up the tower.  I have six communication towers with uncontrolled access and am trying to find guidance concerning preventing anyone from climbing up the tower.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued Office of Engineering and Technology Bulletin 65.  Appendix B of the Bulletin supports a policy to limit tower access based solely on radiofrequency exposure concerns.  Part (C) of Appendix B states that for ground-level exposure above public limits where the public (including trespassers) could be reasonably expected to use the area that fencing and marking is required to limit access.  In the same sense, if it can be reasonably expected that the public may climb the tower and access levels above the public limit, then access restriction and marking of the tower is required to prevent exposure above public limits.

In any case Bulletin 65 should be consulted for general guidance and policies.  Also, note that the obvious fall hazards and potential liability of allowing unauthorized tower climbing are not dealt with here. If there are further questions, please contact FCC.

C-K. Chou,  PhD