Keeping telecom towers operational involves managing a long list of potential problems. Teams are well-versed in handling major issues like structural damage from storms or equipment failure. However, there are several subtle yet significant infrastructure threats telecom teams often overlook. These less obvious dangers can quietly compromise tower integrity and network reliability if left unaddressed. Let’s look at a few of these sneaky culprits.
The Problem With Pests
Pests don’t look like an infrastructure threat until they are. Birds nest in tower frameworks, and their acidic droppings corrode metal. Wasps and bees turn cabinets into hives, creating hazards for technicians. Rodents chew through wiring, sparking outages that are maddening to trace. The only real defense: routine inspections that catch these freeloaders before they move in.
Vegetation’s Quiet Encroachment
Trees and overgrown vegetation create problems that go well beyond blocked access. Fast-growing branches can physically interfere with the structure or antenna pathways, disrupting signals. During a storm or high winds, these same branches can become projectiles, causing direct damage. Furthermore, root systems can destabilize the ground around a tower’s foundation over time. A clear perimeter is not just for looks; it’s a buffer against these slow-moving threats.
The Slow Creep of Corrosion
Moisture is a constant enemy of steel structures. While teams are aware of rust, they may not always focus on the conditions that encourage it. Poor drainage around the base, for instance, can keep the foundation persistently damp. Over time, this leads to notable decay that can weaken the entire structure. Taking proactive steps to prevent corrosion in communication towers is a fundamental part of long-term asset management.
Vandalism and Theft
While security fences are standard, determined thieves and vandals can still find a way in. The primary target is often copper grounding wires, which are valuable as scrap metal. A compromised grounding system leaves the entire site vulnerable to damage from lightning strikes or power surges. Even minor vandalism, like cutting locks or spray-painting equipment, can create unexpected maintenance work and security vulnerabilities.
Staying ahead requires looking beyond the obvious storm clouds and technical glitches. By paying closer attention to the culprits above, teams can better protect their assets. Acknowledging these infrastructure threats telecom teams often overlook is the first step toward building a more resilient and reliable network for the long haul.