The pole looks fine, but the base is thin.
Learning Track · Module 7: Failure library · Step 51 of 101
| Symptom | Rust at ground level, paint that lifts, or a pole that moves when pushed. Often found only in a structural test. |
|---|---|
| Cause | Water, salt, soil, and urine at the ground line. Poor coating at the base. |
| Check | Remove soil around the base. Measure wall thickness with an ultrasonic gauge or a structural test method. |
| Fix | Replace the pole if wall loss is above the limit. For small loss, clean and coat the base. |
| Prevent | Specify a protective sleeve or coating at the ground line. Test poles on a cycle. |
Warning
A pole that can fall is a danger to the public. Take it out of service at once.
Sources
- IEC 60364-6 Verification of low-voltage installations
- IEC 61643-11 Surge protective devices
- IEC 60598-2-3 Luminaires for road and street lighting
- Maker installation and maintenance instructions
Changes: 30 October 2026: First publication: guides for Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, and the USA; failure library; tender clause library; comparisons; tools; downloads. See the changelog. Found a mistake? Report it.