Telecommunication Cables

Introduction

The HSE Booklet HS(G)47 "Avoiding Danger from Underground Services" gives comprehensive advise on all buried services including telecommunications cables. It sets out measures that should be taken and safe systems of work that should be followed prior to any excavation. It is essential that as much information as possible is obtained about buried services in the area of work. Areas covered are location of services, works affecting existing services, new services, and demolition sites and gives detailed guidance and sets out procedures for working in the vicinity of underground services.

There is a legal obligation that any activity shall be carried out in such a manner as not to give rise to danger. It must always be assumed that an overhead and underground telecommunication cables are live unless categorically proved to the contrary! Contract documents should require that all operations are carried out in accordance to these advice notes.

Identity of supplier

The name and address of each telecommunication company must be included in the contract information.

Telephone Cables

Existing overhead telephone cables must be identified within the health and safety plan. They should be illustrated on the plan and particularly described where they are affected by the project.

The advice, conditions, and codes of safety of the British Telecom should be identified and copied as necessary into the health and safety plan.

Specimen or Standard Clause

1. The position of existing telecommunication and television cables identified on the drawings is based on information supplied by British Telecom or (other named) Cable Company. The client does not guarantee accuracy and the contractor must make his own inquiries to determine the position of telecommunication cables and services.