Campbell Scientific UT20 and UT30 Tower-based Weather Stations - Manual (Page 11)

UT20 and UT30 Tower-based Weather
Stations
1. Introduction
The UT20 and UT30 are durable, lightweight instrument towers that can be
used for a variety of applications. They support a 6 m (20 ft) or 9 m (30 ft)
measurement height for wind sensors as well as sturdy attachment points for
antennas, solar panels, environmental enclosures, radiation shields, and
crossarms.
2. Cautionary Statements
2.1 Site Selection
• Select a safe site to install the tower.
• The distance between any power lines and the installation site should be at
least one and one-half times the height of the tower. Make the distance
even greater, if at all possible. Since all overhead power lines look
somewhat alike, consider them all dangerous and stay well away from
them.
• If there are power lines or buried utilities in the area, call the local utility
providers for assistance.
2.2 Tower Mounting
• NEVER work alone; always have someone near who can summon help.
• Certain clothing may provide a degree of safety, but don’t depend on it
alone to preserve life (rubber boots or shoes, industrial rubber gloves and a
long sleeve shirt or jacket).
• Check local weather conditions. Be sure that it has not rained recently and
that the ground is not wet or muddy. Make sure that rain or thunderstorms
are not predicted for the day the tower is to be installed.
• The wind can blow the tower into a nearby power line. Do not install or
remove towers in moderate or heavy winds.
• If it is necessary to use a ladder, make sure it is made of non-conductive
(non-metallic) material. (This safety rule applies whenever working with
electrical equipment.)
• If possible, have someone present who has been trained in electric shock
first aid.
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