STATION OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - Wind Resource Assessment: A Practical Guide to Developing a Wind Project - page 90

3. Site Departure Procedures
• The correct functioning of the data retrieval system should be verified before
leaving the site. This involves completing a successful data transfer with the
home-base computer (for remote systems) or in-field laptop computer (for
manual systems). For remote systems, data transfer can be verified at the site
through the use of a data drop box (such as an email account or FTP folder)
that can be accessed from the field. This simple test will ensure that the system
is operating properly and the remote communication system (antenna direction
and phone connections) was not inadvertently altered during the visit.
• The data logger should be returned to the proper long-term system power
mode. Some models have a low power mode for normal operation to conserve
system power. Neglecting to invoke this mode will significantly reduce battery
life and may cause data loss.
• The data logger enclosure should be secured with a strong, high quality pad-
lock to discourage curious visitors and vandalism.
• The departure time should be recorded and all work performed and observa-
tions made should be entered on the Site Visit Checklist.
6.3 DOCUMENTATION
The Site Visit Checklist, which follows the procedures outlined in the Operation
and Maintenance Manual, is a helpful tool for the field technician. It provides a
reminder of what needs to be done on each visit and serves as a record of the
actions taken. An exact, detailed record can help to explain periods of questionable
data and may prevent a significant amount of data from being discarded during data
validation.
For these reasons, a standardized checklist should be developed, completed for
each site visit, and kept on file. Example information and activities to detail in the
checklist include the following:
1. General Information. Site name, technician name(s), date and time of site visit,
and work to be performed. (Note: To avoid confusion, all times recorded here
and elsewhere should be in local standard time, or LST.)
2. In-House Preparation. List of necessary tools, equipment and supplies (including
spares), documentation, maps, and safety items.
3. On-site Activities. A sequential list of the various site activities including equip-
ment checks, data retrieval, tower-related work (raising and lowering proce-
dures), and departure activities.
4. Findings and Recommendations. A detailed account of the work performed,
findings, and observations, and if applicable, further recommended actions.
A sample Site Visit Checklist is provided at the end of this chapter.