Lesson 1Line-of-sight analysis: identifying trees, buildings, roof edges, and seasonal foliage impactLearn to check the line-of-sight by finding trees, buildings, roof edges, and other blocks. You will think about the satellite path, possible dish spots, and how leaves change with seasons that might affect signal over time in our area.
Using sighting tools to trace satellite pathsIdentifying current physical obstructionsEstimating seasonal foliage growth impactComparing alternative dish mounting spotsDocumenting LOS risks in site notesLesson 2Pre-work check: paperwork, permits, customer confirmation, and site photos for baseline documentationBefore work begins, make sure paperwork, permits, and customer info are correct. This part shows how to confirm the job details, take starting photos, and note any damage or risks to protect the worker and customer in Gambia.
Reviewing work orders and job scopeConfirming customer identity and expectationsChecking permits and property approvalsTaking baseline photos of site conditionsRecording pre-existing damage and hazardsLesson 3Inspecting coaxial cables, connectors, splitters, multiswitches, and indoor terminationThis part looks at checking coaxial cables, connectors, splitters, and multiswitches for damage, water, and signal loss. You will also check indoor ends, labels, and support to make sure the system lasts long in our climate.
Identifying kinks, crushing, and UV damageChecking connectors for corrosion and loosenessEvaluating splitters and multiswitch placementInspecting indoor wall plates and terminationsLabeling cable paths for future serviceLesson 4Using tools and apps for preliminary azimuth/elevation/skew lookup (satellite lookup websites, compass apps)Learn to use satellite websites and phone apps to get azimuth, elevation, and skew numbers. This covers map matching, magnetic north vs true north, and checking against the actual site in Gambian locations.
Choosing reliable satellite lookup websitesUsing compass and inclinometer appsUnderstanding magnetic vs true northChecking skew values for selected satellitesCross-checking app data with field realityLesson 5Visual inspection of dish, mount, mast, and wall/roof bracketsDo a close look at the dish, mount, mast, and brackets. Learn to see if things are not straight, loose parts, rust, and water harm that could make it unsafe or affect pointing and system strength over time.
Checking dish alignment and visible warpingInspecting mast plumb and rigidityExamining wall and roof bracket anchoringIdentifying rust, cracks, and metal fatigueAssessing sealant and water intrusion pointsLesson 6Personal protective equipment and PPE checklist: harnesses, anchors, helmets, gloves, and footwearKnow the needed personal safety gear for satellite jobs, like harnesses, anchors, helmets, gloves, and shoes. Learn to use a PPE list to check condition, fit, and rules before each job in our hot weather.
Selecting fall arrest harnesses and lanyardsChoosing anchors and lifelines for roofsUsing helmets, gloves, and eye protectionSelecting slip-resistant, insulated footwearCompleting and storing PPE checklistsLesson 7Roof and balcony access planning: ladder placement, fall hazards, and rescue considerationsPlan safe ways to reach roofs and balconies by picking good ladder spots, managing fall risks, and readying rescue plans. Learn to check surfaces, tie points, weather dangers, and local rules before going up.
Selecting safe ladder locations and anglesSecuring ladders to structures and anchorsAssessing roof surfaces and load capacityIdentifying fall hazards and exclusion zonesPlanning rescue routes and emergency accessLesson 8Assessing dish condition: reflector, feedhorn/LNB, bolts, corrosion, and structural integrityCheck the dish's reflector, feedhorn or LNB, and all bolts. This covers rust, sun damage, water entry, and weak structure that might need fixing, changing, or better tying down for Gambian conditions.
Inspecting reflector surface for dentsChecking LNB housing and weather sealsTesting LNB arm rigidity and alignmentEvaluating bolts, nuts, and clamp tightnessDeciding when replacement is requiredLesson 9Electrical safety and grounding checks: nearby power lines, lightning protection, and bonding requirementsThis part explains spotting electrical risks near satellite spots, like power lines and masts. Learn basics of grounding, bonding, and lightning safety to keep the system and people safe during rainy seasons.
Maintaining clearances from overhead linesIdentifying service entrances and metersVerifying dish and mast grounding pathsChecking bonding to building grounding systemAssessing surge and lightning protection
