RF safety on the tower: what should I do near active antennas?

There is no single distance you can memorize. Exposure depends on frequency, power and antenna pattern. Use this approach: - Read the site’s RF safety information and signs (alert signs and the site plan indicate zones). Complete the RF awareness training your employer or carrier requires. - Ask the NOC or the site owner to power down or reduce the sector when you must work in front of the antenna. Get it confirmed, and lock out as the procedure says. - Use a personal RF monitor if the site plan or your employer requires one, and heed the alarm. - Do not stand in front of an antenna’s main beam; stay behind or beside, and keep time in front of antennas short. - Exposure limits are set by the FCC (47 CFR 1.1310) and other bodies. Pregnant workers should talk to their employer about their site rules. If you are unsure whether the sector is off, stop and verify. — CrewRating Team. General guidance, not a substitute for your company safety program, manufacturer instructions or the carrier’s scope of work. If this conflicts with them, follow them and tell us so we can fix it.