Band towers: A bird’s eye view of risk factors

Band towers can be a nice addition to your school grounds, offering band leaders a bird’s eye view of the marching band’s formations during practices. Whether you already have a band tower or plan to install one, there are certain risks to be aware of. Such risks could include:

• Type of equipment – Are you building a makeshift band tower based on carpentry skills? Hopefully, you will instead purchase a unit from a reputable vendor – one that has been engineered, tested and approved as safe for this use. Avoid building a makeshift scaffolding system.
• Improper installation – Rather than internal staff performing the installation, an installer specified by the manufacturer should take on that task.
  • Be sure to comply with local building codes and the manufacturer’s specification on installation parameters.
• Access/Departure Means – Band towers can be installed where persons can either access them via a fixed ladder or via a fixed staircase. Choose a fixed staircase, along with a secure handrail!
• Damage from Vehicles – Consider what will happen if a vehicle strikes the band tower. To reduce the chance of this happening, install engineered parking lot bollards surrounding the structure. Also incorporate an adequate traffic flow, routed away from the band tower, so that traffic can avoid potential contact with the unit.

Now that you have the band tower installed, be sure to focus on necessary policies for use, along with inspection criteria.

• Student Use – Provide a written directive on how students will be expected to use the equipment. Be sure to have a parent/guardian sign a permission slip.
  • Always have a staff member present when a student utilizes the equipment.

• Do(s)/Don’t(s) – Receive all pertinent information from the manufacturer regarding the do(s) and don’t(s) for use. Implement policies and procedures and hold people accountable for compliance.
  • Do:
    • Inspect the unit on the manufacturer’s recommended timeline, along with having a manufacturer’s representative or an engineer inspect it at least once every two years.
    • Replace parts approved by the manufacturer.
    • Take the unit out of service if a problem is detected.
    • Develop guidelines on when the unit should not be used – electric storms, windstorms, elevated outside temperatures, etc.
    • Restrict access to the unit’s entrance via a policy of use and a lockable gate to physically prevent access to the band tower when not in use.
    • Implement emergency evacuation procedures and don’t overlook practice drills.
  • Don’t:
    • Use alternate parts/hardware or makeshift supplies that will compromise the structural integrity of the unit.
    • Use it until walking surfaces have been cleaned of slip/trip hazards, such as leaves, tree debris, etc.
    • Use flammable or combustible liquids on the unit, along with electrical or propane appliances.
    • If you use an extension cord, keep the number of cords limited, and remember, extension cords are only meant for temporary use – so, immediately remove the electrical cord when finished using the tower for that day.

Whether you have a band tower or plan to add one to your school, now would be the opportunity to review the risk factors regarding this equipment.

Check out this article for more information regarding band tower safety.