High-voltage lines are the primary hazard to watch for when installing signs.
SMC: Are there any types of signs or locations where safety considerations are particularly complex or demanding? How do you approach such scenarios to ensure a smooth installation process?
JL: High-voltage lines are pretty much No. 1 when it comes to sign installation because we’re working with businesses and buildings that are close to the powerline infrastructure. You have to take precautions and know your measurements, such as how far to stay away and your minimum distance requirements from the wires. As previously mentioned, communication is key. Site meetings will help to determine where the powerlines are and encourage team members to keep an eye on them.
A lot of times, you get complacent, and you don’t pay attention because you’re so focused on getting the job done. However, when the whole team is together, they know all of the hazards, and you have all eyes on them, it’s a lot safer.
SMC: What steps do you take during the assessment phase to account for any potential risks?
JL: Pre-assessing the site before you send the crews out is important. That way, when the team gets their work orders, they know exactly what to look for and what the hazards are and can come up with a plan.
As for buildings, you don’t just put the sign or pattern on the wall before drilling. You have to go inside and do a complete assessment of the interior of the building. That way, when you’re penetrating it with your wires and mounting hardware, you’re not hitting any potential hazards or people.
SMC: How do you stay up to date with the latest techniques and safety standards to continuously enhance your work?
JL: We’re very involved in the industry, so we work with a lot of reputable companies that do the legwork for us and educate us at the same time. We talk to our hardware suppliers often, so for any challenging installations, we can see if there’s something out there that is more suitable for what we’re trying to achieve. We’re constantly learning on a daily basis. There are all kinds of new products that come out, and as you talk more with others in the industry, you find out what they’re using or what they have used in the past—whether it’s a good product. To have a good rapport with other installers and sign companies is very helpful. Everyone has their own way of doing an installation, but someone may have a better idea than you, and vice versa. Thus, it’s important to be in communication with different people on a regular basis. It’s a tough industry, so the more people you talk to and work with, it makes everything a lot easier. That’s how we learn, and that’s how we evolve.
