What is one method to evaluate the structural integrity of a tower?

Conducting a visual inspection is a fundamental method for evaluating the structural integrity of a tower. This non-invasive technique allows technicians to identify visible signs of wear and damage, such as rust, cracks, and loose bolts, which could compromise the tower's stability. A thorough visual inspection can often uncover issues that may not be immediately apparent through other methods and can serve as an initial assessment to prioritize further testing or maintenance needs.

While seismic testing, soil testing, and measuring temperature fluctuations can provide valuable information regarding a tower's performance under certain conditions or its environment, they do not directly assess the physical state of the tower itself as effectively as a visual inspection does. Visual inspections are usually the first step in any maintenance or evaluation process, making them essential for ensuring the ongoing safety and functionality of telecommunications towers.