CommScope Trunk & Distribution Cable - Manual (Page 60)

Construction 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.
These codes, regulations, and specified practices should be investigated, interpreted, communicated and
observed.
The ability
to recognize
and avoid
hazards is
required of all
construction
personnel
8.1 Appendix
Introduction