Yes I work for Asplundh.Its not company policy to use spikes but thats the way every one is taught so everyone does it.Im not speaking for Asplundh everywhere, but in southside Richmond thats how they climb.Like MB said its for better production.
IM A UTILITY CLIMBBER IN RICHMOND AND THEY ALL SPIKE ALL THE TIME IT WASNT JUST ON STORM WORK, OUR REGULAR MAINTANANCE IS DONE THIS WAY.I RUN A BUCKET NOW BUT ALL THE CLIMBERS WE HAVE USE SPIKES.