Broadband Applications & Construction Manual - Public - CommScope

13.4 Appendix
NESC Standards and Construction Grades
National Electric Safety Code (NESC) Standards and Construction Grades
The NESC defines grades of construction on the basis of strength requirements for reasons of safety. Section 24 of
the NESC identifies construction grades B (the highest), C, D and N (the lowest).
Grade D construction typically applies to broadband coaxial cable and fiber optic cable. Construction grades B
or C may be applicable dependent on the situations that exist. If more than one grade of construction applies to
a situation, the higher grade will apply. A qualified engineer should evaluate required construction and dictate the
grade of construction. The strength requirements for the various grades of construction are defined within Section
26 of the NESC.
The NESC typically identifies the construction techniques and materials necessary in outside plant construction of
electric supply or communication cable systems.The NESC is an American National Standard that has been written
by a group of professionals that are concerned about the Standard’s scope and provisions. The NESC has been
adopted by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). All references to the NESC in this manual are from
the 2002 edition.
Special attention should be given to NESC Table 232-1, Vertical Clearance of Wires, Conductors, and Cables
Above Ground, Roadway, Rail, or Water Surfaces which is reproduced in part on the next page.
Copies of NESC standards can be obtained from:
IEEE Service Center
445 Hoes Lane/P.O. Box 1331
Piscataway, NJ 08855-1331
(800) 678-4333