NWSA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield NWSA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When a tower worker is found unresponsive due to electrocution, a rescuer must first: → Ensure the electrical source is completely de-energized before touching the victim
2. What is the minimum safe approach distance for unqualified workers near energized overhead power lines rated up to 50kV? → 10 feet
3. What does the term 'competent person' mean under OSHA regulations for tower work? → A person capable of identifying hazards and authorized to take prompt corrective action
4. Double-insulated power tools are designed to eliminate the need for: → An equipment grounding conductor, using two independent insulating layers instead
5. What is the maximum permissible free-fall distance allowed when using a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) per OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502? → 6 feet (1.8 m)
6. What FCC regulation establishes the Maximum Permissible Exposure limits for RF radiation? → FCC OET Bulletin 65
7. Which of the following is a common symptom of heat exhaustion? → Pale, cool, and clammy skin
8. What should be done immediately if a worker is found unconscious on the job site? → Call for emergency medical help
9. What type of anchor point connector is commonly used for 100% tie-off during tower climbing? → A dual-leg Y-lanyard or cable grab system allowing continuous connection
10. Electrical burns differ from ordinary thermal burns in that they: → Can cause severe internal tissue damage along the current's path through the body
11. Which of the following best describes a 'fall restraint' system? → A system that prevents a worker from reaching a fall hazard
12. According to the ANSI/ASSP A10.48 standard, which of the following is a mandatory component of a rigging plan for a communication structure lift? → Operational and non-operational construction loads and limitations
13. The primary biological effect of overexposure to high levels of RF energy from telecommunications antennas on the human body is: → Thermal effects, causing heating of body tissue.
14. Which of the following PPE is essential for protecting workers from falling objects? → Hard hat
15. On a lattice-type self-supporting tower, what is the primary function of the diagonal members that crisscross between the main tower legs? → To resist shear forces from wind and transfer loads between horizontal members.
16. What is the primary purpose of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) before beginning tower work? → To identify potential hazards and establish controls before work begins
17. When selecting footwear for tower climbing, which feature is most critical for preventing slips on metal rungs and platforms? → Oil-resistant, non-slip outsole with ankle support
18. What is the primary objective of a Site Safety and Health Plan (SSHP)? → To ensure worker safety and health
19. Under OSHA regulations, a qualified electrical worker is defined as someone who: → Has received training and demonstrated ability to work safely on electrical systems
20. A high-visibility vest worn on a tower work site near roadways must comply with which ANSI/ISEA standard? → ANSI/ISEA 107
21. What is the purpose of a rescue pre-plan at a tower work site? → To establish step-by-step procedures for rescuing a worker before an emergency occurs
22. During a pre-use inspection of a full-body harness, which of the following findings would require the harness to be immediately removed from service? → Frayed or broken stitches on a load-bearing strap
23. What is the correct order for donning (putting on) PPE before climbing a tower? → Hard hat → Safety glasses → Harness → Gloves
24. What is the key purpose of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP)? → To provide procedures for responding to emergencies
25. What is the main purpose of lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures? → To prevent accidental startup of machinery
26. What is the first step in conducting a hazard assessment on a job site? → Identifying potential hazards
27. A capstan hoist is being used to lift materials up a tower. What is a primary safety prohibition regarding the use of this type of hoist? → Using it for hoisting personnel
28. Capacitors in recently de-energized electrical equipment are dangerous because they: → Can still deliver a lethal shock even after the power source is disconnected
29. A worker who has been suspended in a fall arrest harness and rescued must: → Be evaluated by medical personnel before returning to work
30. What is the shelf life of most latex and rubber PPE components such as rubber insulating gloves when stored properly? → Determined by the manufacturer with periodic retesting required