Wind Turbine Construction Safety

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-ENE-003  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

Why?

Extreme heightWorking above 100 metres on exposed structures in wind creates fall risks unmatched by almost any other construction activity.
Blade liftingTurbine blades are the largest, most wind-sensitive single lifts in construction — calm conditions are essential for safe installation.
Remote isolationWind farm sites are remote with long emergency response times — self-rescue skills and comprehensive first aid are essential.
Do Don't
  • Monitor weather continuously — stop work for wind, lightning, and ice formation at height.
  • Use a detailed lift plan for every tower section, nacelle, and blade installation.
  • Wear full fall arrest equipment when climbing or working inside the turbine tower.
  • Ensure a tower rescue plan and trained rescue team are ready before climbing.
  • Follow confined space procedures when working inside the turbine tower and nacelle.
  • Prepare large concrete pours at foundations with consideration for remote site logistics.
  • Scan cable trench routes for buried services and ecological constraints before excavating.
  • Ensure only HV-authorised persons carry out electrical commissioning inside the turbine.
  • Maintain comprehensive first aid provision accounting for remote location response times.
  • Brief all workers on daily weather conditions, height restrictions, and emergency plans.
  • DON'T work at turbine height in wind, lightning, or icing conditions.
  • DON'T lift tower sections, nacelles, or blades without detailed approved lift plans.
  • DON'T climb the turbine tower without fall arrest equipment and anchor systems.
  • DON'T access the tower without a rescue plan and trained rescue team on standby.
  • DON'T enter the nacelle or tower without considering confined space requirements.
  • DON'T pour foundations without planning for remote site concrete delivery logistics.
  • DON'T trench cable routes without scanning for services and ecological constraints.
  • DON'T commission HV equipment inside turbines without proper authorisation and PPE.
  • DON'T rely on external emergency services alone — have on-site first aid capability.
  • DON'T ignore weather forecasts — conditions at turbine height change rapidly.

See also: Renewable Energy Safety Awareness | Working in High Winds