What is the workers comp exposure for small cell installation?

Small cell installation workers compensation exposure is generally lower severity than traditional tower climbing but higher frequency due to the repetitive nature of multi-site deployments and urban work environment hazards. Workers may be classified under NCCI code 7601 (Antenna Installation/Repair) or potentially lower-rated codes depending on the specific work and state. The heights involved (typically 25-50 feet using bucket trucks rather than climbing) reduce fall severity but do not eliminate fall exposure entirely. Workers exit bucket trucks to mount equipment, work on rooftops, and occasionally climb utility poles. Additional WC exposures specific to small cell include: traffic incidents (working in or near active roadways), electrical contact (working on or near energized utility poles), repetitive motion injuries from high-volume installations, and vehicle-related injuries from frequent driving between sites. The rate per $100 of payroll for small cell workers is typically lower than tower climbers but higher than standard construction. If your company performs both tower climbing and small cell work, proper payroll separation between class codes can significantly reduce total WC premium. Document job assignments carefully to support class code splitting during audit.