Broadband Applications & Construction Manual - Public - CommScope

Drop Cable Safety Issues
Construction of a broadband cable system requires a substantial amount of manpower, tools and equipment. Underground
and aerial construction will expose the manpower, tools and equipment to hazards, dependent on field
conditions and circumstances.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines a qualified employee as “any worker who by
reason of training and experience has demonstrated his ability to safely perform his duties.” Only a qualified employee
should be assigned duties that could cause harm or potential harm to the construction crew, general public,
cable plant, and other utilities.
This manual cannot identify the many hazards that exist in the construction environment, nor can it dictate the caution
required with all of the tools, equipment and field conditions. CommScope continues this manual with the assumption
that the construction personnel performing the work are qualified employees.
Three sets of national codes and standards apply to the construction of cable systems.
Section 1910.268 of the OSHA Safety and Health Standards applies to work in telecommunications
centers and field installations. The National Electric Code (NEC) applies to
building utilization wiring, i.e. inside plant construction. The NEC applies specifically, but
is not limited to, plant that is within or on public and private buildings or other structures.
The National Electric Safety Code (NESC), generally applies to outside plant construction.
Municipal, state, county, and local codes are often applied to the construction of cable
systems or work that involves their respective properties and right-of-ways. Pole Lease
Agreements often stipulate specific practices related to safety.
Appendix 13.1
Safety Overview
The ability
to recognize
and avoid
hazards is
required
of all
construction
personnel
These codes, regulations, and specified practices should be investigated, interpreted, communicated and observed.