Wooden pole snaps: apprentice (16) falls 9 m and dies

06/02/2025 · Posat (FR) · Energy · Fatal

During maintenance on a low-voltage line, the wooden pole a 16-year-old apprentice was standing on broke. He fell 9 m and died; a colleague at its foot was slightly injured.

Before climbing a wooden pole, check it is sound (rot at the base) – if in doubt, brace it or use a lift. Never send an apprentice first up an unchecked pole.

Source: Polizeinews.ch (DE)

Fact summary in our own words based on the linked source, which prevails. No names of the people involved.