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Reply To: Guide to work on poles and pole structures

  • bryce-cleveland1downer-co-nz

    Member
    27 February 2026 at 10:46 am

    Hi Graeme

    We also utilize the “Cow Tag” style marker.

    Any pole with tag should not be climbed (regardless of tag colour) as it is unreasonable for a field worker to determine the calculated loadings of the structure (Orange/Yellow Tag) or what additional stresses they are adding to poles that require an engineered re-assessment (Blue Tag.)

    During our pre climbing pole testing, if the field worker asserts the pole as unsafe, they attach a Red Tag and ensure all relevant information is collated and escalated back to the Network Owner for further action (in line with SMEI protocols.)

    The use of tag colours other than Red appears to be uncommon.