Sample Standard Operating Procedures

RONTECH GROUP
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
AND
INSTALLATION GUIDE FOR OPTICAL FIBRE CABLE
DATE: April 19, 2013
PURPOSE: The purpose of this Standard Operating Policy/Procedure (SOP) is to

establish a standard procedure for the planning, installation and
approval of cable installation for Rontech Group, and quality control
procedures for such work. Under the provisions of this SOP, project
plans will be updated to reflect the location of all cables installed on
project sites and customer premises.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 - Safety Warnings ........................................................................................................................... 3

2 - Working Practice .......................................................................................................................... 3
3 - Precautions .................................................................................................................................. 4
4 - Storage ........................................................................................................................................ 4
5 - GENERALITY ................................................................................................................................. 5
5.1 Pre-installation procedure ........................................................................................................................5
6 - Fibre optic cable construction....................................................................................................... 6
Installation Guideline for Placing Fiber Optic Cable into an Underground Duct ......................................... 23
1 GENERAL....................................................................................................................................... 34
A. SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................ 34
B. APPLICABLE STANDARDS .............................................................................................................................. 34
C. LOCAL CONDITIONS....................................................................................................................................... 35
D. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................................................................................................................. 35
E. SANITARY FACILITIES ..................................................................................................................................... 36
F. RECEIVING, TRANSPORTATION, UNLOADING, INSTALLATION, AND STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT AND
MATERIALS............................................................................................................................................................ 36
G. SITE CLEAN UP AND TRASH DISPOSAL .......................................................................................................... 36
H. CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULING ...................................................................................................................... 36
I. PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT ....................................................................................................................... 37
J. COST ACCOUNTING AND PARTIAL PAYMENTS............................................................................................... 37
2 LANDOWNER RELATIONS .............................................................................................................. 37
A. ACCESS .......................................................................................................................................................... 37
B. RESTORATION ............................................................................................................................................... 39
3 FIBER OPTIC CABLE ........................................................................................................................39
A. GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................................... 39
B. HANDLING AND STORAGE ............................................................................................................................ 39
C. TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................... 40
D. FIELD CONDITIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 40
E. PRE CABLE INSTALLATION ............................................................................................................................. 40
F. CABLE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ........................................................................................................................ 41
G. PLANNING AND PREPARATION ..................................................................................................................... 42
H. INTIAL REEL TESTING WITH OPTICAL TIME DOMAIN REFLECTOMETRY (OTDR) .......................................... 43
I. EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES ..................................................................................................................... 43
J. ACCEPTABLE INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES ..................................................................................................... 44
K. POST INSTALLATION OTDR TESTING ............................................................................................................. 45
L. REELS AND EXCESS CONDUCTOR .................................................................................................................. 45
B. SPLICING ADSS CABLE TO OPGW CABLE ....................................................................................................... 47
C. SPLICE CLOSURE ............................................................................................................................................ 47
6 FINAL ACCEPTANCE TESTING ......................................................................................................... 47
A. TESTS TO BE CONDUCTED ............................................................................................................................. 47
B. TEST DOCUMENTATION TO BE PROVIDED.................................................................................................... 48
C. ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA .................................................................................................................................. 49
D. TEST EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS............................................................................................................... 50
7 DRAWINGS ................................................................................................................................... 50
Important Remark: Installation is to be performed by qualified service personnel

1 - Safety Warnings
Risks of inhaling fumes or of allergic reactions to
chemicals used to prepare and process optical fibres.
The installer shall have documented procedures for
the control of substances hazardous to health meeting
the requirements of relevant national legislation.
Risks of optical fibre fragments piercing the skin (and

the eyes), which can lead to infection and
complications due to the difficulty in their removal.
Risks from exposure to the eyes from optical power

either direct from sources (LED , VCSEL or LASER)
or from free interfaces (connectors, fractured optical
fibres, splices, etc.).
If fibre optic cable contains metal (for example:

corrugated steel armour, metallic strength member,
messenger) it is necessary to earth both metallic sides
of the cable. (Relevant national legislation for safe
working practices must be complied with).
2 - Working Practice
Certain chemicals used to prepare and clean optical
fibres may be considered hazardous when inhaled or
ingested by mouth. Other such as the epoxy resins
used in the assembling of connectors may cause
allergic reactions.
The following practices should be adopted, failure to
do so may endanger the health of those involved.
The work should be carried out in well-ventilated

areas or forced ventilation should be provided.
Prolonged and repeated breathing of vapor fumes
should be avoided.
Precautions should be taken to avoid contact with

eyes or skin or clothing.
Eating and smoking should not be permitted in the

vicinity of processing chemicals used since this may
represent an enhanced hazard due to potential
explosion.
In case of contamination a basic First Aid kit should be

available together with a ready supply of water.
All chemicals should be stored in clearly and correctly

marked containers and should be sealed when not in
use.
Exposed optical fibre ends must be kept away from

eyes.
Waste fragments should be treated with care and

collected (not by hand) together with other waste
materials and disposed of in suitable containers.
Under no circumstances should a connector end-face,
prepared optical fibre or fractured optical fibre be
viewed directly unless the power received from the
optical fibre is known to be safe under local control.
This allows inspection of components using locally
injected visible light and prevents the inspection of
components using light injection from a remote non-
controlled location.
The provision of the correct safety labelling is a
mandatory requirement on all products where
transmission features an optical hazard. All potential
hazard areas must be similarly marked.
Adaptors within Patch Panel closures and free

connectors should be permanently capped to prevent
accidental eye contact, which might result in injury.
The user should ensure that all authorized personnel

are aware of the relevant safety issues and should
obtain training where appropriate.
3 - Precautions
Never install a fibre optic cable if temperature is below

–5°C (Be aware that in cold environment the cable
jackets are stiffer and more sensitive to bending and
pulling. The range of recommended installation
temperatures of cables is much smaller than the
operating temperature ranges).
For reasons of safety, always unroll cable by the

bottom side of the reel.
(figure 1).
For same reasons, only LSZH-FR cables can be
installed inside premises.
figure 1
During the delivery of the optical cable the off-loading

of the reels should be monitored to ensure that no
mechanical damage occurs (kinking, unravelling or
twisting).
If fibre optic cable is installed in the same tray as

copper ones, always place the copper cables below.
At both cable ends, it’s recommended to leave a few

meters of cable for reserve.
It’s also recommended to leave some extra cable (+-
5m) at different places on the cable link (This makes it
easier to repair in case of a broken cable).
Always cut first meters of cable as this part can be

damaged by pulling of the cable, bending, water…
4 - Storage
Fibre optic cable reels must always stand upright.
Never forget to place a wedge to avoid that the reel

can roll.
On fibre optic cable stored outside, a cap must be
placed at both ends to avoid water infiltration.
Storage temperature range is specified for each cable

and must be respected.
Indoor cables must not be stored outside to prevent

water infiltration and UV damages.
If several reels are stored at the same place, take care

that flanges of a reel don’t damage the cable of
another reel.
5 - GENERALITY
5.1 Pre-installation procedure

Before laying the different cable sections, all reels
should be visually inspected for possible
transportation damage.
Before pulling the cable, to ensure of the stability of

the pay-off.
To avoid possible damage from a sudden stop, the

pay-off must be equipped with a progressive braking
system. Under no circumstances should the reel be
stopped by hand.
The route defined by the design should be accessible

and available in accordance with the installation
schedule. The users should be advised of all
proposed deviations.
The installer should establish that the environmental

conditions within the routes and the installation
methods to be used are suitable for the optical fibre
cable to be installed (Check the datasheet of the cable
used). If the route contains sections where the optical
cable is subject to high temperatures the necessary
protection should be provided. Look out for heating
tubes, which are not heated all the time.
Any measure necessary should be taken to prevent

the optical cable experiencing direct stress following
installation.
The installer should determine the locations at which

reels are to be positioned during the installation
program.
Where necessary, the minimum quantity of ceiling

tiles, floor covers should be removed.
The installer should ensure that all necessary guards,

protective structures and warning signs are used to
protect both the optical cable and third parties.
Relevant national legislation for safe working
practices must be complied with.
6 - Fibre optic cable construction
Before more detailed discussion on how to handle
optical fibre cable, some brief discussion of fibre and
cable design is required.
Eliminating confusion between the different terms, and
providing an understanding of the cable construction
will make handling the products less complicated.
6.1 Fibre
The cable cross-section in figure 2 demonstrates a
Aram id strength
members two fibre cable for interconnect applications. The
construction of the glass fibre can be looked at
Buffered fiber
separately from the design of the cable, as the fibre
Outer jacket itself is constructed using distinct materials and is
shipped by the fibre manufacturer as a finished
product. Rontech takes the coated optical fibre and
incorporates it into a multitude of finished cable
figure 2
products.
All of the glass fibre used by Rontech is manufactured

Core using the same basic construction. Two layers of
Cladding glass are covered by a protective coating. As
demonstrated in figure 3, the fibre’s core and cladding
Coating
are both made of silica glass. It is these two layers
that propagate the light signal and determine the
performance of the fibre. A slight difference in optical
figure 3 characteristics between these two layers keeps the
signal within the core region. The glass is protected by
a dual layer of ultra-violet-cured acrylate material. The
coating protects the surface of the glass from abrasion
Glass core/ during normal routine handling, thereby ensuring the
cladding Acrylate coating Tight buffer
glass maintains it’s high tensile strength. The acrylate
coating, which also functions optically by stripping out
any light, which might enter the cladding region, is
removed for termination and splicing (figure 4).
figure 4
6.2 Buffer types

All of Rontech fibre optic cables fall into one of 3
categories: tight buffered or micro tube or loose tube
buffered. The 3 cable buffer styles exhibit different
optical, mechanical, and cost characteristics.
Originally, loose tube cable constructions were
developed for long haul telephony applications, which
required a rugged, low cost, high fibre count outside
plant cable solution. In a premises wiring plan this
cable type is often used between buildings, although
recent developments in cable design have produced
loose tube cable for indoor/outdoor applications. The
tight buffer cable construction was developed for both
indoor and outdoor premises wiring applications. Most
of Rontech tight buffer cables are rugged enough for
many interbuilding applications while offering the tight
buffer design advantages of ease of terminations,
meeting IEC flammability codes, and cable flexibility.
Notice: These tight buffer cables cannot be directly
buried (excepted the TBC cable).
6.2.1 Tight Buffered Fibre
A thermoplastic material is extruded directly over the
acrylate coating, increasing the outside diameter of
Glass
Coating
the fibre to 900 micron (0.9 mm), an industry standard.
(figure 5)
Buffer
The tight buffer supplies the fibre with added
mechanical and environmental protection, increased
size for easy handling, and a simple means of adding
figure 5 colour coding for fibre identification. During
connectorization, the buffer is stripped back to an
exact length as required by the connector
manufacturer.
6.2.2 Micro tube Buffered Fibre

The fibre at 250 micron is loose inside a micro tube.
Outside diameter of this micro tube is 900 micron (0.9
Glass mm), an industry standard (figure 6). The micro tube
Coating supplies the fibre with added mechanical and
M icro tube environmental protection, increased size for easy
handling, and a simple means of adding colour coding
for fibre identification. During connectorization, the
micro tube is easily stripped back to an exact length
Air
figure 6 as required by the connector manufacturer. The big
advantage of this product (In comparison with tight
buffer) is that you can easily strip up to 1 m in one go.
6.2.3 Loose Buffered Fibre

In loose tube cables, the coated fibre « floats » within
a rugged, abrasion resistant, oversized tube, which is
Buffer tube
filled with optical gel. Since the tube does not have
Optical gel
direct contact with the fibre, any cable material
Coating
expansion or construction will not cause stress on the
Glass
fibre. Much of the external stress placed on the tube
also will not be transferred to the fibre. The non-
hygroscopic gel prevents water from entering the tube.
figure 7
See figure 7 for a diagram of a multi-tube, gel-filled
outside plant cable.
6.3 Strength Members

Rontech ’s optical fibre cable designs utilise glass
yarn as the primary strength member (Aramid yarns
are also used in some cable designs like patch cables
and
Buffer Outer jacket TB cables). Some designs also use a fibreglass
central strength member. These materials serve as
the load bearing members of an optical fibre cable
during installation. In patch cables the aramid also
Fib re Streng th m em b er s acts as a strength member during connectorization.
fig ure 8 Figure 8 demonstrates a single fibre cable, where the
tight-buffered fibre is surrounded by aramid and
coated with an overall jacket.
6.4 Ripcords
Ripcords are designed to make removal of the exterior
cable sheath easier, preventing unnecessary stress to
the core. Ripcords provide a means of stripping back
the jacket without the use of invasive tools, which
could harm the cable core and damage fibres.
6.5 Outer Jacket
The true cable jacket is usually the outermost element
in the cable design. It serves to protect the cable
against environmental hazards and gives the installer
a means of managing the cable. Typical jacket
materials include Polyethylene (PE) or LSZH-FR
material.
Also without selectivity choosing the appropriate
jacket determines the level of fire performance. Outer
jackets are always stripped back to expose the fibres
at the point of termination or connectorization.
7 - FIBRE OPTIC CABLE SPECIFICATIONS
7.1 Tensile Strength

One of the goals in any optical fibre cable installation
is to complete the installation with as little stress as
possible to the fibres themselves.
For this reason, all cables are provided with a carefully
calculated tensile loading value, which should never
be surpassed. For optical fibre cables, the tensile
strength is the value that represents the highest load
that can be placed upon a cable before any damage
occurs to the fibres or their optical characteristics. It is
not the cable breaking strength but a realistic
allowable limit. Rontech specifies two load values,
installation and long term.
The installation maximum load will be a higher value
than the long-term load. The installation or short-term
load is the load the cable can withstand during the
actual installation process. It includes additional
stresses caused by pulling cable through, over or
around stationary objects such as ducts, corner and
conduits. Many installers will carefully meter the force
with which they are pulling the cable throughout the
installation to avoid accidentally pulling on it too hard.
After the cable has been installed it will be subject to
lower loads. This value is referred to as the installed,
long term, static or operating load.
The tensile strength of the cable will depend upon the
cable construction, and the application for which it is
designed. You will find both values in the cable data
sheet.
7.2 Bend Radius

The minimum bend radius is the value determined by
the cable manufacturer to be the smallest bend a
cable can withstand. Bending the fibre beyond
recommended limits could cause an increase in the
fibre attenuation at those points.
Sometimes straightening the cable out will improve
performance, but the best policy is to not over-bend
the cable. Like tensile strength, there are two values
associated with bend radius, installation and long
term.
The installation bend radius, again the higher value, is
the amount of bending the cable can withstand while
under the load of installation. After the cable has been
installed and the stress of being pulled is removed, the
cable may actually be bent to a smaller radius. These
values will again depend on the size of the cable, its
construction and intended application.
These are several common handling mistakes that
lead to cable bend radii being surpassed. One of the
most frequent errors is pulling cable through conduit
with too small of a bend radius.
Similarly, cable must never be over-bent going
CORRECT
through trays, between tray sections, or when making
transitions between locations.
Cables should be « swept » to prevent sharp bends or
corners (figure 9). Optical fibre cables are designed
for extra flexibility in closets or work area.
Unfortunately, it is often tempting to bend the cables
tightly over corners, to keep the cables closer to
equipment. Bending cable over corners, sharp or not,
IN CORRECT
can cause serious damage to the performance of the
figure 9 cable. Care must also be taken to prevent wrapping
the cable tightly around itself to be stuffed behind
walls at the user end. Cables should never be kinked
or knotted.
7.3 Crush and Impact

Cable crush and impact are often listed but rarely
understood details of optical fibre cables. They do,
however, provide some legitimate guidelines for cable
installation. IEC794-1-E3 (International Electro
technical Commission) details the crush test method
of a fibre optic cable. The intend of this document is to
provide a standard means of testing cables to
ascertain how well they either withstand or recover
from a slow crushing or compressive action. It details
the entire test procedure, which crushes a cable
between two plates while measuring any optical power
loss. The amount of attenuation allowed under a given
compression can be specified by customer
requirements.
Impact testing is documented in IEC794-1-E4 with the

intention of determination the ability of optical fibre
cable to withstand repeated impact loads, as they
might be forced to encounter during installation in
exposed or open access areas. Cables may be tested
simply for fibre breakage, or changes in optical
transmission characteristics. Crush and impact are
important not as laboratory guidelines but as they
apply to real-life installation situations. Optical fibre
cables can be run in the same duct or tray as much
heavier power cable. It is desirable to avoid placing
excessive crushing forces on the fibre cables,
however, by limiting the amount of « crossovers »
(figure 10) or placing the heavier cables to the side or
beneath the fibre cables. If numerous heavy cables
figure 10
are placed on top of a fibre cable a force or pressure
is exerted on the fibre cable, pressing it into the rung,
causing potential damage at that point (figure ???).
Moving or shifting already installed cables that have
large weights on top of them greatly increases the
chance of damaging the cables.
8 - FIBRE OPTIC CABLE INSTALLATIONS
8.1 Interbuilding / Outside Plant

Much of the truly long-haul optical fibre pulled is for
trunk or telephony applications, and is installed by
trained professionals using special and expensive
equipment.
However, routine cable installations in many cases will
see some amount of cable run outside. This can vary
from campus application with many long outdoor runs
to a simple 20 m segment connecting two buildings.
8.2 Direct Burial

Optical fibre cables can be manufactured in such a
way as to be ideal for long haul buried applications.
Loose tube designs make the cables particularly able
to withstand certain stresses, while the gel filling
prevents water migration. Specially selected jacket
materials are abrasion and UV resistant. Outside plant
cables have high tensile strengths to withstand
environmental abuse and pressures of direct burial
installations.
Trenching simply involves digging a hole, placing the
cable in it, and refilling the hole. Trenches are often
dug with backhoes and visually inspected for rocks or
+ /- 30 cm debris that could potentially damage the cable. (It is
At least
50 cm
Frost
line
strongly recommended to fill the hole with 20 cm of
sand under and over the cable).
This is not a quick process and is most effective for
shorter distance applications. Cables directly buried in
the ground should be placed deeply enough to provide
adequate protection for the cable. This does seem
obvious, but the depth for different cables may vary
with their application, intended user and construction.
It is usually beneficial to attempt to bury cable below
Soil the frost line for any given area. One of the major
Cable warning
tape hazards a buried cable faces is the possibility of being
Cable
dug up. It is usually desirable to place a marker tape
over the cable but below the soil to warn future
figure 11 workers in the area that an optical fibre cable lies
below (figure 11). Armoured cables (cables with
corrugated steel or FRP (Fibre Reinforced Plastic))
are rodents resistant.
8.3 Underground Conduit:

The conduit used in outside plant applications is
designed to provide extra protection for the cables, but
can also offer certain installation advantages. Duct or
conduit for underground burial is manufactured using
rigid, very rugged, abrasion resistant material. In many
cities the “underground plant” is a series of ducts
placed under the streets, accessible by utility vaults or
manholes. Installed conduit is advantageous because
it offers a route for new cable installation or old
removal without damage to streets, pavements,
edifices, etc.
Conduit should be placed with some sort of pull rope
or tape already installed to ease future runs. Conduits
are sometimes placed with direct burial cable in
trenching operations, again for future use.
Inner duct or duct liner is slightly less sturdy plastic
tubing designed to fit within larger conduits. Without
providing the primary protection for the cable, inner
duct serves several functions. Many manufacturers
offer inner duct in diverse colours to assist in cable
identification and maintenance. Inner duct affords a
clean path for new cable installations: where cables
Duct are already placed in duct it is difficult and often
impossible to pull new cable in the same duct. Cables
Fibre cab le can become, rub together, and sometimes block the
conduit when new cable is installed along with the old.
Inner ducts keep cables separate to prevent future
installation cable damage (figure 12).
Duct and conduit are excellent for installing tight-
buffered cables such as Rontech ’s TBW or TB cables
figure 12 between buildings. The benefit of these cables versus
standard loose tube Outside Plant cables is their ease
of termination (possibility to directly assemble
connectors on fibres without use of pigtails). Conduit
can also serve, as rodent protection in these short-
interbuilding installations where splicing to armoured
cable is not a reasonable alternative. Conduits can
economically be installed for applications where a
second trenching operation would be impossible.
Conduit may be placed under concrete banks,
landscaping, farmland or private premises where it
would be extremely undesirable to disturb the soil
after some time has elapsed. Cables may be chosen,
added and installed at a later time without disrupting
the environment. When duct or conduit capacity may
be perceived to be constricted, it may be advisable to
run extra fibres in the cable to be installed to be
prepared for prospective uses.
Notice: Conduit diameter must be at least 2 times the
fibre optic cable diameter.
Two ways to install fibre optic cable into conduit:

Cable pulling is the most used method to install a
cable into conduit. First of all, a pulling tape is pulled
in the conduit. The cable is attached to the pulling
tape and then the cable is pulled through the conduit.
Cautions: Always respect the minimum bending radius
and never exceed the maximum pulling force value
specify in the cable data sheet.
Fore more information concerning the cable pulling,
please have a look on the chapter “Fibre Optic Cable
handling procedures – Pulling Cable”.
Cable blowing is another way to install cable in
conduit. It consists of blowing compressed air in
conduit and the air pressure carries the cable through
the conduit. This is a specific installation method,
which needs very specific and expensive material.
8.4 Aerial:
The full details of aerial cable installations are too
complicated for this discussion but a few key points
should provide some critical guidelines. Like direct
burial installations, aerial installations will often be
executed by utility companies with specialized
equipment for long haul runs. However, many campus
or industrial environments do see shorter links
between buildings that may most efficiently be run
aerially.
Although most optical fibre cables are intrinsically
lightweight, they are subject to stresses caused by the
environment they are installed in. Cables located in
aerial runs can be affected by wind and ice, creating a
situation that can cause the cable to stretch or sag,
pulling on the fibre. Under most conditions aerial
optical fibre cables should be supported by an
external support member, suspension strand, or
“messenger”.
Strong “wires” made of steel are positioned and
secured to utility poles along the desired route. The
cable is then placed along the route under the
messenger, lifted into place and lashed or tied to the
messenger with a steel or dielectric thread. Lashing
can be accomplished using standard lashers designed
for this purpose. Lashing strands should be chosen in
accordance with guides associated with the lashing
tool. As a general rule, there should be at least one
wrap of the lashing wire per 30 cm.
Messenger wires are chosen by their tensile strength
and size and the span distance per the requirements
of each application. Charts for recommended
messenger strands are readily available. Under
certain conditions fibre cables can be “over lashed”, or
tied onto existing lashed cable. Many variables have
to be taken into account, and the inability to place a
dedicated messenger must outweigh the benefits of a
known system.
8.5 Intrabuilding:
Inside a building, it’s strongly recommended to select
a cable with a LSZH-FR jacket (A major part of our
Indoor and Indoor/outdoor cable installation are
made using a LSZH-FR jacket material). In case of
vertical installation of Loose Tube cables, it’s
necessary to loop cable at the bottom end.
8.5.1 Horizontal
8.5.1.1 Conduit applications
Intrabuilding conduit runs can be in ceilings, walls or
under floors, with certain limits, as conduit systems
are very flexible. Conduit systems should be used only
when workstation outlet locations are permanent, no
flexibility is required, and densities are low. Under-
floor conduits are often embedded in concrete making
it particularly difficult to do additions, changes or
moves. Pull cords should always be placed in the
conduit to ease installation. Inner duct is an excellent
tool for protecting cables and making future
installations easier.
8.5.1.2 Dropped Ceiling and Raised Floor
Plenum or dropped ceiling /raised floor runs can
sometimes be the easiest to install. Many dropped
ceilings or raised floors have panels that are easily
removed or opened to provide fast access to the area.
Most new buildings have dropped ceilings, making this
an extremely popular method of installing cables.
Raised floors are usually found in computer rooms,
although they can be used in many different
conditions.
Suspended ceilings consist of low-weight panels
supported by a system of metal frames or grids which
are attached to the ceiling using struts or wires.
Typically the panels are easily moved: When they are
pushed up they are dislodged from the grid and may
be pushed to the side. Although it is not particularly
recommended, smaller cables can rest directly on the
ceiling support grid. This is done at the discretion of
the installer.
Cables should be supported in some manner, ideally
in organized, easy-maintenance trays, wire ways or
racks.
At the very least cables can be supported by bridle
rings.
8.5.1.3 Cable in Trays

Cable trays or “ladder racks” can often provide a
convenient, safe, efficient method of optical fibre cable
installation. Trays can be installed in ceilings, below
floors and even in riser shafts. Some trays are
designed to be aesthetically pleasing, to be placed
BELOW the ceiling, in the line of vision, while still
supporting a multitude of cables. Frequently the tray
installation precedes the fibre cable installation, as
trays can be used for many other cable types. This
means that in many buildings a tray distribution
system exists and if the plan can be followed the
routes may be clear for the new cable installation.
Although the tray provides a sturdy support and basic
protection for the cable, there are still stresses the
cable will be subjected to. Optical fibre cable must
always be run in trays in a way to avoid as much
tension, crush, and over-bending as possible. Routes
should be inspected for possible sharp turns, snags
(sometimes from other cables), or rough surfaces.
Effort should be made to run the fibre cable without
pulling it under or between heavier cables or multiple
cables that will create added forces on the fibre. The
same holds true for moves and adds. It is desirable to
secure the cable to the tray to avoid damage during
future changes.
8.5.1.4 All Pathways and Spaces

If the optical fibre is being installed in wire ways,
racks, ducts, or plenums, some basic guidelines hold
true. Support the cable and avoid crushing, stressing
and over-bending it. Every cable will have values
attached for minimum bend radius and maximum
tensile loading. In addition to monitoring the cable
pulling tension, additional efforts to support and
protect the cable will greatly lengthen its working life.
Cables should never be allowed to hang freely for long
distances or be allowed to press against edges in any
installation. When pulling cable in conduit all transition
points, such as going from conduit to a pull box should
be kept smooth. Sometimes adding a piece of conduit
beyond the transition will keep the cable from resting
on a sharp edge.
Bushings designed to fit the ends of conduit are also
available. Flexible conduit can also be placed within
boxes or at interfaces to prevent pressure against the
cable or scraping on rough edges. Flexible conduit
can also be added in areas open to frequent access,
such as raised computer room floors, when there is a
higher potential risk to the cable.
Complying with the cable’s minimum bend radius
cannot be overstressed. Many applications will
automatically present conditions wherein the bend
radius of the equipment or its configuration will
damage the cable if precautions are not taken.
Conduit bends pull boxes and joints must be checked
to verify that the radius is not too small. Inner duct or
flexible conduit can be used to ease or sweep the
cable around tight corners. The inside radius of
conduit bends for fibre optic cable should be at least
10 times the inner diameter of the conduit. Pulls
through tightly bent elbow fixtures should be back-fed:
the cable is not pulled from end to end, but out of the
opened junction, coiled loosely on the ground, and fed
through the rest of the run (figure 13). In tray and rack
installations the minimum cable bend radius must also
be monitored, as the cable will be routed around
figure 13 corners or through transitions. Where raceway or rack
transitions expose the cable flexible conduit should be
used for protection.
8.5.1.5 Vertical or Riser

The same critical observations must be made when
installing cable in vertical shafts or risers. Cable bend
radii and tensile loading can never be exceeded.
Cables in vertical runs should be supported as well as
possible, in a reasonable number of locations. Optical
fibre cables intended for vertical applications have a
calculated maximum vertical rise value assigned to
them. The vertical rise is the distance the cable may
be pulled (vertically) before being supported. It is
determinated by the weight of the cable and its ability
to resist buckling or kinking.
Split wire mesh grips (figure 14) work like basket or
finger grips, supporting the cable without crushing the
core. Cables should be supported by cable ties, straps
or clamps in wiring closets to avoid damage.
Whenever possible begin the installation from the top,
fig ure 14
allowing the weight of the cable to help rather than
adding more load.
Notice: If the cable installed is a Loose Tube one,
don’t forget to loop it at the low end to avoid the jelly
drainage.
Generally, it’s recommended to loop at 10 metre
intervals so the fibre doesn’t fall out or get stressed.
9 - Fibre Optic Cable handling procedures

9.1 Pulling Cable
In many premises network cable installations the fibre
optic cable is going a short enough distance, in a
straight enough path that it can be pulled in by hand
without the use of special equipment. In any fibre optic
cable it is imperative that the load be applied to the
strength bearing members of the cable.
Failure to lock the cable components together can
lead to elongation of the jacket material which when
released will cause the optical fibres to pull back with
the jacket and bunch up in the
Cable. When additional mechanical force is required
to pull a cable there are several relatively standards
tools available to aid in the installation of fibre optic
cable. External pulling grips (figure 15) are designed
figure 15 to lock into and tighten around a cable as a tensile
load is applied to the grip. The pulling end of the grip
is a loop or eye for attachment of the pulling tape or
rope.
When pulling Rontech Outside Plant cable with a
pulling grip it is important to remove jacket of the cable
and attach the grip over the top of the glass (or
aramid) yarns strength members surrounding the
cable core in addition to the outer jacket.
NB: If a multitube cable has no glass (or aramid) yarns
around tubes, it will be necessary to use the central
strength member as pulling element.
This can be accomplished by sliding the grip on the
top of the cable jacket past the end of the cable. The
cable jacket is then removed (the length of jacket
removed depends on the length of the pulling grip),
and a friction tape is applied over approximately 10
cm of the cable jacket and cable core. The grip is then
positioned over the cable core and taped in place.
This procedure ensures that the cable strength
members are utilized during installation.
A swivel should be used when pulling to make sure a
twist in the pulling tape or rope is not translated to the
fibre optic cable. It is also important to monitor the
tension being applied to the cable to be certain not to
exceed the maximum specified cable installation load.
Cutting a cable back 3 m from the pulling end should
eliminate any portion of the cable, which might be
damaged during installation.
Assuming the cable has been pulled and all of the
restraints have been properly adhered to, the cable
should now be ready for connectorization or
termination. A reasonable amount of spare cable
should be left at either end, and enough to reach the
work area where the termination will take place. In
some outside plant or factory-type environments the
cable end may have to reach a special clean room or
tent: this length must be considered when planning
the cable link length. Before termination,
approximately 3 m of cable should be cut off to
remove any piece that may have suffered stress from
the pulling tape or grip.
After cable pulling, if the cable is not directly

terminated, it’s absolutely necessary to replace a cap
at both ends of the cable in order to avoid water
penetration.
In case of partial use of a cable, both ends of the

remaining cable must be fastened to a flange of the
reel by means of a “bridge nail”.
Under no circumstances should “bridge nail” will be
higher than the thickness of the flange in order to
ensure that the “nail nibs” do not cause injury to
people or damage the remaining cable on the spool.
9.2 Jacket Removal:

For any fibre count or cable type, some amount of the
cable outer jacket will have to be removed to expose
the fibres. For simplex or duplex cables whose jackets
are designed to fit within the connector the length of
jacket removed will be specified by the connector
manufacturer. Typical values for outer jacket removal
for these cables is 4 to 5 cm. Multifibre cables will
have longer lengths of the jacket removed. Outside
plant cables that will be terminated in trays may have
over 2 meters of jacket removed.
Mark the cable with a piece of tape or with an indelible
ink marker to show how far the jacket should be
stripped.
9.2.1 Patch cables:

Simplex and duplex cable jackets are usually removed
no more than a few cm from the point of termination
and are easily taken off using standard buffer or jacket
strippers.
9.2.2 Distribution cables:

Distribution cable jackets can be removed using round
cable slitters or other tools that will not damage the
interior of the core.
9.2.3 Breakout cables:

All Heavy Duty breakout cables contain a ripcord for
jacket stripping. Once several cm of jacket have been
taken off, the ripcord can be used.
9.2.4 Outside Plant cables:

Outside Plant cables have ripcords to aid in the
removal of the rugged outer jacket. Care should be
taken to avoid getting the glass (or aramid) yarns
strength members tangled with the ripcords.
9.3 Core Components
After the jacket has been removed to the required
location, ripcord can be cut back to the jacket. In
cables that have layers of aramid in the core (Patch or
Distribution style), trim the aramid (or glass) to the
necessary length as specified by the equipment or
connector manufacturer. Aramid is more easily cut by
scissors sold specifically for this purpose. Central
strength members will also be trimmed. Some are cut
back to the jacket so they will not interfere with
termination, other applications will call for the central
strength member to be cut to a specific length and
incorporated in termination (i.e.: some break-out kits).
Central strength members made with fibreglass rod
can be cut using almost any cutting tool. Buffer tubes
on Outside Plant cables are easily removed. Buffer
tube cutters are designed specifically for this purpose,
but it can also be done with a knife. Score one side of
the tube with the knife (not too deeply) and bend the
tube away from score. The separated piece of tube
can be pulled off the end of the fibre (figure 16).
fig ure 16
9.3.1 Fibre Stripping
There are a variety of commercially available tools that will strip the buffer and coating off 900
µm tight- buffered fibres or the coating off loose-buffered fibres. Tight buffered fibres can be
stripped either in a one- step or two-step process. Tools sold for one-step removal will take off
the buffer and coating with one action (To strip from 900 to 125 µm in one go). The two-step
procedure requires one tool to remove the buffer (To strip from 900 to 250 µm), and one for the
coating (To strip from 250 to 125 µm). Taking the coating off loose tube fibres can be done with
the same tool used for tight-buffered fibres, or with some tools the blades can be exchanged for
the two functions. The amount of buffer and/or coating removed will depend on the application
and termination procedure. Many connectors will come with exact templates for this purpose.
See the hardware or connector manufacturer’s specific instructions.
FIBER INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
POLICY/PROCEDURE
For the purpose of this SOP, cabling is defined as any communication, telephone, fiber optic, security
alarm, fire alarm, energy monitoring system, data acquisition, video, two-way radio, or department or
school network computer cables.
1. Responsibilities
a. The director of Building Maintenance and Construction is responsible for the control of
access to and use of the utility corridors in Rontech buildings and tunnels. This responsibility
includes installation of appliances and cable systems within the buildings. Therefore, the
installation of any wiring or cables in the buildings must receive approval from the director of
Building Maintenance and Construction.
b. The Information Technology Division is responsible for the installation of all voice and data
communications in accordance with SOP 52.03. Communications cabling will be
coordinated in accordance with the procedures prescribed in Section 2.b of this SOP.
c. Agencies, organizations, and individuals that do not install cables as part of their primary
mission will submit a self-help Customer Project Request (CR) to the director of Building
Maintenance and Construction in accordance with SOP 61.35. Approval for these
organizations will be granted only after the following criteria have been met:
(1) Certification by a department director, chairperson, or individual of equivalent

responsibility level that the installation is necessary to meet a university requirement;
January 20, 2017
TECHNICAL GUIDELINE TG85 Rev.1
(2) Installing department will provide the funding necessary for installation of the cables;
and
(3) Installation will be completed in accordance with the standards stipulated by this OP.
d. The mechanical, heating and air conditioning, and structural superintendent is responsible to
the director of Building Maintenance and Construction for the maintenance and cleanliness of
chases and ceiling spaces in which utilities are piped.
e. The director of Engineering Services is responsible for notifying the director of Building
Maintenance and Construction and the affected superintendent(s) of any plans or projects that
will involve additional cables within the buildings or tunnels. Additionally, the director of
Engineering Services is responsible for ensuring that material containing asbestos is
appropriately identified and handled.
f. The assistant vice president for research (environmental health and safety) is responsible for
the health and safety of building occupants. This responsibility includes ensuring that the
structural safety of facilities is not compromised. This includes the maintenance of all
firewalls. Therefore, the director of Building Maintenance and Construction will forward any
submitted designs or requests for the installation of cables to the assistant vice president for
research (environmental health and safety) for review prior to granting approval for
installation.
g. The chairperson, director, or department head of any agency or organization installing cables
is responsible for ensuring that personnel involved in installation have received asbestos
awareness training.
2. Procedures
a. Departments that do not routinely install cables as part of their normal operation and do not
feel comfortable performing cable installation may request the Operations Division to do the
installation by completing and submitting a CR as outlined in OP 61.35.
b. The Information Technology Division will coordinate with Operations Division regarding the
location of communication cables in the following ways:
(1) A record of installed cables will be maintained and information provided, upon request
by the director of Building Maintenance and Construction, sufficient to coordinate
work in any building or tunnel.
(2) Site demolition and disposition of communications cables will be coordinated with
Operations Division upon request by the director of Building Maintenance and
Construction.
c. To obtain approval for cable installation, all other agencies not cited above must submit a
self-help CR to the director of Building Maintenance and Construction in accordance with OP
61.35.
(1) The CR must include the following information:
(a) Building plan indicating the proposed route of the cables with all firewall, floor,
and other structural penetrations clearly identified;
January 20, 2017
(b) Type of system (data, video, audio, etc.) being served;
(c) Number and type of cables being installed;
(d) Termination locations;
(e) Identification system to be used on the cable;
(f) Installation technique/method to be used, including a clear description of the

method used in sealing firewall and/or floor penetrations;
(g) Proposed installation schedule;
(h) Name and telephone number of individual(s) responsible for the installation; and
(i) Certified approval by the department director, chairperson, or individual of

equivalent responsibility level.
(2) The director of Building Maintenance and Construction will process the CR in the
same manner as a self-help project (see SOP 61.35).
(3) The director of Building Maintenance and Construction and the Building Maintenance
and Construction Work Control Center personnel will review the CR to verify that it
does not interfere with any known projects or utilities. If it does not, the director of
Building Maintenance and Construction will forward it to the affected
superintendent(s) for technical review.
(4) The affected superintendent(s) will review the CR to verify that the route indicated is
appropriate and does not create interference of any kind for existing cables or utility
systems. Finally, an inspection of the area proposed for penetration of the floors, walls,
and ceilings will be conducted to verify that such penetration will not endanger existing
systems. After this review, the affected superintendent(s) will return the CR with
comments to the director of Building Maintenance and Construction.
(5) The director of Building Maintenance and Construction will consider the comments
received from the affected superintendent(s) and approve the installation, or prepare
comments to the requesting department indicating disapproval and the reasons for
disapproval. For projects that are approved, written authorization to proceed will be
forwarded to the requester, along with any special instructions and appropriate
guidance on standards of installation as prescribed in this OP.
(6) The installing department will notify the director of Building Maintenance and
Construction of the estimated start date and the estimated completion date of the
installation.
(7) The affected superintendent(s) may make periodic inspections while the cables are
being installed, and will inspect the installation after it has been completed. Any
deficiencies or improper installation will be reported to the director of Building
Maintenance and Construction and to the installing department for correction.
(8) After all deficiencies have been corrected, the affected superintendent(s) will make a
final inspection of the installation and recommend approval to the director of Building
Maintenance and Construction, as appropriate.
(9) The director of Building Maintenance and Construction will notify the installing
January 20, 2017
department of the approval and request a final drawing of the installation be submitted
to director of Building Maintenance and Construction for inclusion in campus building
plans. This drawing must include:
(a) Final location of cables and all firewall penetrations;
(b) Location of junction boxes;
(c) Location of termination points;
(d) Size of conduit used;
(e) Number of cables installed;
(f) Type of cables installed, and
(g) Any and all transceivers, multiplexers, network repeaters, or other equipment
associated with the cables.
(10) Upon receipt of the final installation drawings, the director of Building Maintenance
and Construction will review them with the affected superintendent(s) for accuracy
and, subsequently, submit them to the director of Engineering Services for inclusion in
campus building or tunnel plans.
d. In the normal pursuance of their duties, Building Maintenance and Construction technicians
and craftspeople will identify and report any improperly installed cables that they encounter,
including any non-elevator-related cables in any part of an elevator shaft or elevator
equipment room. The superintendent will attempt to identify the agency responsible for the
installation of this cable by inquiry of the agencies cited in Sections 2.a and 2.b. The
responsible agency will be expected to correct the deficiencies discovered. In the event that
the responsible agency cannot be identified, such cables will be reported to the director of
Building Maintenance and Construction.
e. The director of Building Maintenance and Construction will consult with Engineering
Services and all agencies cited in section 2.a. in a final attempt to identify the cable. If it
cannot be identified, a decision will be made regarding the arbitrary removal of the cable. No
cable will be cut or removed unless it presents an obstacle to maintenance operation, a hazard
to safety in the building or tunnel, a hazard to the structural integrity of the building or tunnel,
or a significant violation of applicable structural codes.
3. To coordinate replacement of any existing cable, an installing agency will be required to notify
the director of Building Maintenance and Construction in writing. This notification will include
the following information:
a. Type of cable (data, video, audio, etc.) being replaced;
b. Location of cable being replaced; and
c. Identification system used on replacement cables.
4. Standards of Installation
All cable installations on the Texas Tech campus will meet the specifications and requirements
established by Uniform Building Code (UBC), National Safety Code (NSC), National Electric
January 20, 2017
Codes (NEC), The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), Electronic Industries
Association (EIA), and American National Standards Institute (ANSI). In addition, all
installations will comply with established federal and state regulations concerning the disturbance
of asbestos-containing materials. Specific standards established for the installation of cables at
TTU are as follows:
a. All wall, ceiling, and floor penetrations will be made in accordance with applicable codes and
standards noted in Section 4 and, specifically, in Sections 709, 710, and 711 of the 1997
UBC.
b. All cables in plenums shall be in conduit or have an outer jacket approved for use in air
plenums (e.g., “plenum-rated”).
c. Cables will be laid in existing cable trays and bundled with wire ties every 20 feet. In areas
that do not have a cable tray, alternate means of support may be acceptable and, generally,
consist of wall locks, clamps, or messenger cable systems. Distance between support points
will not exceed eight feet. Cables will not be laid on the ceiling tile or grids.
d. Cables will not be secured to existing electrical power cables by wire ties or any other
method.
e. Cables will be neatly bundled, and installed and well secured with installation as close to the
structural ceiling as possible.
f. Cables will not be installed in or through any elevator shaft or elevator equipment room
unless the cables are specifically part of the elevator system.
g. Cables will not be installed or passed through any fire dampers.
h. Cables will not be secured to pipes (water, chilled water, or steam) or valves, and will not be
wrapped or entwined around pipes. Cables will not be wrapped or entwined around any
structural feature or routed through any ladders or catwalk equipment. Cables may be secured
to existing anchors, supports, or brackets.
i. Cables will not be installed with excessive slack producing a tripping, snagging, or
entrapment hazard.
j. All installed cables will be marked and identified. Adhesive or snap on jacket markers will be
affixed to the cables on each side of any firewall, floor penetration, tunnel entrance point, and
junction box connection. These identification tags will be attached securely and permanently
to every cable or cable bundle and include the following information:
(1) Installing agency or department
(2) Termination points
k. All personnel installing cables at customer premises shall have completed a minimum
of two hours of hazardous materials awareness training.
l. Suspected asbestos-containing materials will be tested and verified as non-asbestos prior to

disturbance.
m. Only properly trained and licensed personnel will be allowed to disturb materials containing
asbestos.
January 20, 2017
n. All suspected asbestos-containing materials found to be damaged by personnel installing

cables will be reported immediately to the director of Building Maintenance and Construction
and to the assistant vice president for research (environmental health and safety).
Installation Guideline for Placing Fiber Optic Cable into an Underground Duct
Contents
A. Purpose .................................................................................................................................. 1
B. Introduction .................................................................................................................... 2
C. General Precautions ....................................................................................................... 2
D. Reference Documents .................................................................................................... 3
E. Fiber Optic Cable Installation into a Duct using a Pulling Method ................................. 3
E.1 Limitations ..................................................................................................................................3
E.2 Construction Planning ...............................................................................................................4
E.3 Equipment and Materials ..........................................................................................................4
E.4 Initial Conditions for Cable Pulling Method .............................................................................5
E.5 Duct Installation Procedure ......................................................................................................5
F. Fiber Optic Cable Installation into a Duct using an Air Blowing Method ....................... 8
F.1 Limitations ..........................................................................................................................8
F.2 Construction Planning ...............................................................................................................8
F.3 Equipment and Materials ..........................................................................................................8
F.4 Initial Conditions for Air Blowing Method................................................................................9
F.5 Duct Installation Procedure ................................................................................................... 10
A. Purpose
A.1 This procedure applies to the installation of Rontech fiber optic cable into an
underground duct system using either a pulling method or an air blowing method. The
objectives of this guideline are:
• Provide to the cable installer a general guideline for installing fiber optic cable in an outside
plant underground duct facility. (It is not the intent of this procedure to cover all possible
installation scenarios or conditions. Special circumstances or questions can be addressed
by contacting Rontech Applications Engineering.)
• Prevent damage to the fiber optic cable during the set up, handling, and installation.
A.2 It is intended that this guideline be used in conjunction with procedures that describe
the detailed operation of handling equipment. Equipment procedures are provided by the
equipment suppliers.
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January 20, 2017
B. Introduction
B.1 The practice of handling fiber optic cables has become much more common in recent
years. Fiber optic cables are designed to withstand all typical installation and environmental
stresses expected in the specific application.
B.2 Fiber optic cables can be damaged if not handled properly during the installation process.
In fact, the cable installation process is the most aggressive event the cable will most likely
ever be exposed to. Adherence to the cable’s design limits of pull tension, minimum bend,
and crush force during installation will ensure that the cable will perform properly throughout
its full design lifetime. The greatest mistake when handling fiber optic cable is assuming that
all outside plant (OSP) handling equipment is suitable for use—it is not. If in doubt prior to,
or during, any fiber cable installation, contact Rontech Technical Support by calling 1-
877-263-2818.
C. General Precautions
C.1 The following precautions always apply when handing fiber optic cable.
• DO NOT exceed the cable’s stated maximum pulling tension.

• DO NOT exceed the cable’s stated minimum bending radius.
• DO NOT exceed the cable’s maximum crush load.
• DO NOT use detergent or petroleum based compounds as a cable lubricant.
• NEVER set a cable reel on a flange side (to prevent cable crossings during payoff).
• DO use cable lubricants that are tested and compatible with the cable jacket material.
• DO adhere to local personnel safety practices.
• DO review and follow equipment safety practices.
• ALWAYS apply caps over free cable ends to prevent water intrusion.
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January 20, 2017
NOTE: Always check specific product data sheet for cable design limitations.
Cables are designed based on applications. Typical Bellcore GR-20 cable designs
are to the following:
Maximum Pulling Tension 600 lbs 2700 N

Maximum Long Term Tension 200 lbs 890 N
Minimum Bend Radius, under tension 20 x O.D.
Minimum Bend Radius, zero tension 10 x O.D.
Maximum Crush Load, for one minute 125 lbs/in 220 N/cm
Maximum Crush Load, for ten minutes 63 lbs/in 110 N/cm
C.2 Additional general safety precautions exist when working in areas of traffic congestion
and in manholes.
• Proper safety cones and traffic control devices should always be used. The project
manager should coordinate his work with local traffic officials. Safety zones utilizing traffic
signs and cones should be placed at all working locations.
• The atmosphere of all manholes and unventilated vaults should be tested for combustible
or flammable gas. Where combustible or flammable gas is detected, the work area should
be ventilated and made safe before entry.
• Unless forced continuous ventilation is provided, a test should also be made for oxygen
deficiency. Provisions should be made for an adequate continuous supply of air in
manholes and unventilated vaults. Position gasoline and propane generators, etc.,
and trucks not equipped with overhead exhaust so the exhaust fumes will not blow
into the manhole.
• Existing electrical cables in manholes or vaults should be inspected for exposed conductors
that could cause electrical shock.
D. Reference Documents
 Rontech Quality Assurance Guidelines
E. Fiber Optic Cable Installation into a Duct using a Pulling Method
E.1 Limitations
E.1.1 Fiber optic cables must be handled in compliance with their stated design ratings to
prevent short or long-term damage to the optical fibers. Handling crews must be familiar with
the cable’s design ratings and the critical events during installation where design limits may
be approached. Review this entire procedure with operating crew prior to installation day.
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January 20, 2017
E.2 Construction Planning

E.2.1 A site survey of the complete underground duct system, prior to installation,
is recommended. Each manhole should be inspected for safety hazards and water
accumulation. Pumps may be required to remove water.
E.2.2 It is recommended that all ducts be checked for obstructions or out of round duct.
This can be accomplished by rodding the duct or by pulling a mandrel through the duct.
E.2.3 Manholes should be checked for adequate racking space for slack cable and splice
closure storage. Also check manholes for adequate vehicle accessibility.
E.2.4 A pull plan can be developed from the information obtained during the site survey.
Reel set up, assist winch, and “figure eight” locations should be determined based on
the number of bends and elevation changes in the system. Engineering predictions can be
made to estimate the achievable pulling lengths. Pulling length predictions are based on
route complexity, use of lubricant, cable weight, and tensile strength of the cable.
Software programs exist that aid in predicting pulling lengths.
E.2.5 In general, the following guides apply to improve ease of the pulling operation:
• Pull in a direction so that most bends and offsets are nearest payoff reel.
• Pull from higher to lower elevations.
• Where possible, set up payoff reel on same side of manhole as the duct so that
the cable makes a “C” shaped curve from the reel to the duct entry.
E.3 Equipment and Materials

E.3.1 Ribbed or corrugated inner-duct provides lower friction coefficients between the
fiber optic cable and the duct wall, thus enabling longer pulls. If inner-duct is to be placed
in the underground ducts beforehand, consult the manufacturer’s installation guidelines
and specifications. As a rule of thumb, the fiber cable should not occupy more than 60%
of the available area within the inner-duct. This provides sufficient room within the duct for
cable installation.
E.3.2 Cable pulling lubricants are recommended for fiber optic cable installation to
decrease pulling tension. Lubricants must be compatible with the fiber optic cable to prevent
long-term degradation of the cable jacket. Silicon or water based lubricants are generally
acceptable. Lubricants can also be applied at intermediate locations such as open manholes.
E.3.3 Pulling grips are required and must be sized for the cable diameter. Pulling grips
for fiber optic cable are made of galvanized steel strand. Choose a multi-weave mesh for
holding strength. A flexible eye provides easy attachment of a swivel and pull line.
E.3.4 A swivel is required to prevent the pulling line from passing any torsion or twist
into the fiber cable during the pulling process. A breakaway swivel is recommended for all
pulls unless the pulling equipment has a tension set limiting feature. The breakaway swivel
is designed with a breakaway pin that prevents pulling tension from reaching levels that
could damage the cable. Swivels are rated at different breaking loads. Check cable design
limitations to select the properly rated breakaway swivel.

January 20, 2017
E.3.5 A low elasticity pull line, such as an aramid yarn or wire rope, is recommended
to minimize elastic induced surges during the pulling process. Lubrication of the pull line
may be desired for ease of pulling or to reduce any tendency of the pulling line to cut the
inner-duct.
E.3.6 A pulling winch, or equivalent pulling device, with a calibrated maximum tension
should be used. A dynamometer can be used to monitor tension of the pull line near the
winch. Tension monitoring should be at or near the pulling eye and available to the winch
operator during the pulling process. If available, record pulling tension to a strip chart
throughout the run and save in system files.
E.3.7 Any hardware (sheaves, capstans, quadrant blocks) used in the installation of fiber
optic cables must maintain the cable’s minimum bend radius. The minimum bend radius
during installation (dynamic) is 20 times the cable’s outer diameter. The minimum bend
radius during zero tension (static) cable handling is 10 times the cable’s outer diameter.
E.3.8 Radio communication must be established between the cable reel, the pulling
device, and all intermediate locations during the installation. This link can be provided
by two-way radios and is maintained to ensure safe conditions for the fiber cable exist
throughout the installation.
E.3.9 Intermediate assist winches can be used at bends or locations where the pulling
tension is approaching maximum load. The use of multiple assist winches at various
locations can expedite the installation. Communication between these locations is very
important to coordinate winch speeds and cable movement.
E.4 Initial Conditions for Cable Pulling Method

E.4.1 Prior to commencing a cable installation event, the following actions
must be accomplished:
• Duct system prints are obtained and thoroughly reviewed.
• Job area survey is complete.
• Pulling Plan and equipment set up locations are defined.
• Limitations of cable are reviewed with the handling crew.
• Installation equipment is reviewed for adequacy.
• The event is reviewed and briefed, at least one day prior, with install crew.
• All required equipment is on site day of installation event.
• Inner-duct (if used) is in place.
E.5 Duct Installation Procedure

E.5.1 Prior to installation, all traffic safety zones, barricades, and flagmen must be in
place. Observe all local safety ordinances and practices.
E.5.2 All manholes in the system must be checked for harmful gases and ventilation
established. Water should be pumped and any obstacles cleared. Inspect manholes for
general safety conditions such as ladders, existing cables, and rack conditions.

January 20, 2017
E.5.3 If used, all inner-duct is in place. Tie down exposed inner-duct in any manholes
to prevent dragging during the pulling event.
E.5.4 Set up winches, monitoring devices, lubricant equipment, and routing sheaves
per the pull plan. Establish communication between reel and winch, and all intermediate
locations.
E.5.5 Visually inspect each cable reel for physical damage. Ensure the cable reel inner
flanges are smooth and without nails to allow free payoff of the cable. Set up the reel and
reel trailer at the predetermined manhole location per the pull plan. Pay off the cable from
the top of the reel. Align the reel so that the cable makes a smooth transition into the
manhole and the duct system. Use sheaves or other devices to control the cable feed
into the manhole and inner-duct.
E.5.6 Attach the pulling grip to the cable, if not factory installed, and attach the
breakaway swivel to the pulling grip’s flexible eye to prevent the cable from twisting during
the pull.
Attaching the Pulling Grip

E.5.6.1 Apply the correct sized pulling grip over the cable end and mark the gripping
length of the grip onto the cable. Continue to push the grip down on the cable
to expose the full gripping length.
E.5.6.2 Remove the cable jacket from the outside half of the gripping length being
careful not to score or damage the strength yarns over the cable core. Tightly wrap a
layer of friction tape around the unjacketed portion of the cable.
NOTE: Do not use vinyl tape under the pulling grip due to
its slick surface finish.
E.5.6.3 Slide the pulling grip back up over the cable end so that the cable core extends
about ¼" to ½" (6 to 13 mm) beyond the grip mesh. Under the wire mesh should be
about half jacketed cable and half friction tape. Tighten the grip onto the cable.
E.5.6.4 Tightly wrap over the grip with a vinyl tape. Begin the tape wrap about
1" (25 mm) below the mesh (on the cable jacket) and wrap towards the pulling eye
to about 1" (25 mm) above the mesh.
E.5.6.5 Attach swivel to pulling grip eye.
E.5.7 Attach the swivel to the pull line. Place marker tape 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters)
ahead on the pull line to serve as an indicator that the cable end is near.
E.5.8 Apply a cable lubricant as needed.
E.5.9 Check communication between the reel, pulling device, and all intermediate
locations as appropriate.

January 20, 2017
E.5.10 Begin the pull slowly, feeding the cable into the duct. Pull the optical fiber cable as
steadily as possible ensuring cable is set properly on all rotating sheaves and winches
to prevent exceeding minimum bend radius. Apply lubricant, as necessary, at the feed end
by pouring the lubricant into the cable feed funnel. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
E.5.11 Pulling tension should be monitored constantly. If available, record pulling tension
to a strip chart throughout the installation. A soft or hard copy of the pulling tension
throughout the run should be saved in the system files. Do not exceed the cable’s
maximum rated pulling tension.
E.5.12 Gradually increase the pulling speed to the target range of 50–100 feet/minute
(15–30 meters/minute).
E.5.13 As the cable reaches the intermediate locations, make sure it is routed properly
around any assist winches or sheaves. Ensure no sharp bends exist that are less than the
cable’s minimum bend radius. Apply lubricant as required.
E.5.14 Stop the pull, and correct, if any of the following occur:
• Cable rated tension is reached
• Cable not positioned properly on any routing sheave or winch
• Inner-duct begins to move with the cable
E.5.15 When the cable reaches the end point, stop the pull and make adjustments at all
the intermediate manholes for slack storage. At cable ends and intermediate splice point
locations, be sure to leave enough cable slack to easily reach an above-ground splicing
vehicle plus 30 feet (9 meters) minimum.
E.5.16 Slack coils may be assembled in a continuous direction loop configuration or

a “figure eight”. “Figure eight” configuration is best to minimize torsion and stress build up
in the cable fibers over long lengths.
• Continuous direction coiling should only be used for lengths less than 100 feet
(30 meters). Do not exceed minimum bend radius of cable.
• “Figure eight” coil sizing should be approximately 15 feet (5 meters) end to end with
each half loop about 5–8 feet (1.5–2.5 meters) in diameter.
Slack coils should be secured in a location to prevent damage. Fix the coils securely
in place with suitable cable ties.
E.5.17 After the pull is complete, cut 10 feet (3 meters) from the end of the cable. Place
a protective cap over the exposed cable end and tape it in place to prevent water intrusion.
Coil each cable free end and fix it in place securely with cable ties to prevent damage.
E.5.18 At all appropriate manhole locations, rack inner-duct in place. Begin from the center
manhole and work towards the system ends. It is preferred that all exposed cable coils be
mounted in a rack mounted closure box designed for holding the cable coil and the fiber
splice closure.

TECHNICAL GUIDELINE
F. Fiber Optic Cable Installation into a Duct

using an Air Blowing Method
F.1 Limitations
F.1.1 Fiber optic cables must be handled in compliance with their stated design ratings
to prevent short or long-term damage to the optical fibers. Handling crews must be
familiar with the cable’s design ratings and the critical events during installation where
design limits may be approached. Review this entire procedure with operating crew prior
to installation day.
F.1.2 Air blowing of fiber cable into duct systems makes use of special air blowing
equipment. This section is intended to be a general guideline to be used in conjunction with
detailed procedures for the equipment being used.
F.1.3 Air blowing of fiber cable into duct systems requires continuous runs of inner-duct,
pressure tested for integrity. Quality of inner-duct joints is critical to the success of air
blowing techniques.
F.2 Construction Planning

F.2.1 A site survey of the complete underground duct system, prior to installation,
is recommended. Each manhole should be inspected for safety hazards and water
accumulation. Pumps may be required to remove water.
F.2.2 It is recommended that all ducts be checked for obstructions or out of round duct.
This can be accomplished by rodding the duct or by pulling a mandrel through the duct.
F.2.3 Manholes should be checked for adequate racking space for slack cable and splice
closure storage. Also check manholes for adequate equipment vehicle accessibility.
F.2.4 An installation plan can be developed from the information obtained during the
site survey. Cable blower set up, mid-assist blowers, and “figure eight” locations should be
determined based on the number of bends and elevation changes in the system. In general,
the following guides apply:
• Blow cable from higher to lower elevations.
• Where possible, set up payoff reel on same side of manhole as the duct so that the
cable makes a “C” shaped curve from the reel to the duct entry.
F.3 Equipment and Materials

F.3.1 Ribbed or corrugated inner-duct provides lower friction coefficients between the
fiber optic cable and the duct wall, thus enabling longer blowing lengths. Inner-duct is
required for use of a cable blowing system. The installation system uses a combination
of high-pressure air and hydraulics to move the cable into the duct. The inner-duct system
will be pressure tested during the procedure setup. As a rule of thumb, the fiber cable
should not occupy more than 60% of the available area within the duct. This provides
sufficient room within the duct for cable installation.

January 20, 2017
F.3.2 Cable pulling lubricants are required for when blowing fiber optic cable into a duct
system. The lubricants must be compatible with the fiber optic cable to prevent long-term
degradation of the cable jacket. Silicon or water based lubricants are generally acceptable.
F.3.3 Pulling grips are required and must be sized for the cable diameter. Pulling grips for
fiber optic cable are made of galvanized steel strand. They feature a multi-weave mesh for
holding strength. A flexible eye provides easy attachment of a swivel and air carrier unit.
F.3.4 A swivel is required to prevent the air carrier unit from passing any torsion or twist
into the fiber cable during the pulling process. The air carrier unit is a part of the blower
unit system and serves to carry the cable through the duct system via compressed air.
F.3.5 The cable blower equipment is typically purchased as a system. It consists of

the blower unit and accessories, mount stand or trailer, source of hydraulics, source of
high-pressure air, and electrical power. The cable blower system will include detailed use
and procedural instructions.
F.3.6 Any hardware (sheaves, capstans, quadrant blocks) used in the installation of fiber
optic cables must maintain the cable’s minimum bend radius. The minimum bend radius
during installation is 20 times the cable’s outer diameter.
F.3.7 Radio communication must be established between the cable blower unit and the
receiving end, and any mid-assist unit locations, to coordinate cable travel. This link can be
provided by two-way radios and is maintained to ensure safe conditions for the fiber cable
and personnel exist throughout the installation.
F.3.8 Mid-assist blower units can be used to lengthen the amount of continuous cable
blown into place. Communication between these locations is very important to coordinate
cable travel.
F.4 Initial Conditions for Air Blowing Method

F.4.1 Prior to commencing a cable installation event, the following actions
must be accomplished:
• Duct system prints are obtained and thoroughly reviewed.
• Job area survey is complete.
• Installation Plan and equipment set up locations are defined.
• Limitations of cable are reviewed with the handling crew.
• Blower equipment and procedures are reviewed for adequacy.
• The event is reviewed and briefed, at least one day prior, with install crew.
• All required equipment is on site day of installation event.
• Inner-duct is in place.

January 20, 2017
F.5 Duct Installation Procedure

F.5.1 Prior to installation, all traffic safety zones, barricades, and flagmen must be
in place. Observe all local safety ordinances and practices.
F.5.2 All manholes in the system must be checked for harmful gases and ventilation
established. Water should be pumped and any obstacles cleared. Inspect manholes
for general safety conditions such as ladders, existing cables, and rack conditions.
F.5.3 Place blower unit(s), hydraulic and air supply equipment per the installation plan
and equipment documentation. Establish communication between blower and receiving
end, and all intermediate locations.
F.5.4 Visually inspect each cable reel for physical damage. Ensure the cable reel inner
flanges are smooth and without nails to allow free payoff of the cable. Set up the reel and
reel trailer at the predetermined manhole location per the install plan. Pay off the cable
from the top of the reel. Align the reel so that the cable makes a smooth transition through
the blower and into the duct system.
F.5.5 Attach the pulling grip to the cable (see Section E.5.6 above), if not factory
installed, and attach the swivel to the pulling grip’s flexible eye to prevent the cable from
twisting during the evolution. The swivel will later attach to the air carrier unit.
(For steps F.5.6 through F.5.12, refer to detailed equipment procedures. Below steps are provided
as general information only)
F.5.6 Unpack and set up blower unit(s) and accessory equipment per
manufacturers’ documentation. Ensure all safety guidelines are reviewed.
F.5.7 Pressure-test the inner-duct to verify integrity per blower

manufacturer’s documentation.
F.5.8 Prepare the inner-duct for receipt of cable per blower

F.5.9 Perform a final inspection of equipment and cable setup and check
communication between the blower/reel, receiving end, and all intermediate locations
as appropriate.
F.5.10 Operate the cable blower unit(s), per blower manufacturer’s documentation,
to install the cable into the duct system. Ensure cable’s minimum bend radius and
crush limits are not exceeded. Ensure blower tractor unit is not allowed to continue
to operate when cable motion stops. Continued operation of tractor on a motionless
cable my result in jacket damage.
F.5.11 As the cable reaches any intermediate locations, make sure it is routed
properly. Ensure no sharp bends exist that are less than the cable’s minimum bend
radius. Apply lubricant as required.
F.5.12 When the cable reaches the end point, stop the blower and blower
tractor per blower manufacturer’s documentation. Break down blower units per

January 20, 2017
F.5.13 Make adjustments at all the intermediate manholes for slack

storage. At cable ends and intermediate splice point locations, be sure
to leave enough cable slack to easily reach an above-ground splicing
vehicle plus 30 feet (9 meters) minimum.
F.5.14 Slack coils may be assembled in a continuous direction loop configuration or

a “figure eight”. “Figure eight” configuration is best to minimize
torsion and stress build up in the cable fibers over long lengths.
• Continuous direction coiling should only be used for
lengths less than 100 feet (30 meters). Do not exceed
minimum bend radius of cable.
• “Figure eight” coil sizing should be approximately 15 feet (5
meters) end to end with each half loop about 5–8 feet (1.5–2.5
meters) in diameter.
Slack coils should be secured in a location to prevent damage. Fix
the coils securely in place with suitable cable ties.
F.5.15 After the pull is complete, cut 10 feet (3 meters) from the end of the cable. Place
a protective cap over the exposed cable end and tape it in place to
prevent water intrusion. Coil any cable free ends and fix in place securely
with cable ties to prevent damage.
F.5.16 At all appropriate manhole locations, rack inner-duct in place.

Begin from the center manhole and work towards the system ends. It is
preferred that all exposed cable coils be mounted in a rack mounted
closure box designed for holding the cable coil and the fiber splice
closure.
Specifications for Fiber Optic Cable System Installation
Underground ADSS Fiber Optic Cable
1 GENERAL
A. SCOPE
1) The intent of this specification is to describe labor and materials necessary to install the
underground fiber optic cable system for the underground fiber cable and sets forth the
manner in which work shall be performed.
B. APPLICABLE STANDARDS
1) NECA/FOA 301 “Standard for Installing and Testing Fiber Optic Cable”
2) International Telecommunication Union “Optical Fibres, Cables and Systems”, ITU-T

Manual 2009
3) ANSI/TIA/526-7 — OFSTP-7 Measurement of Optical Power Loss of Installed Single-
mode Fiber Cable Plant (ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-7-98)
4) ANSI/TIA/568-C.3 — Optical Fiber Cabling and Components Standard. Includes

guidelines for Field-Testing Length, Loss and Polarity of Optical Fiber Cabling Systems
5) EIA-455 (addendum 1 through 5) Standard Test Procedures for Fiber Optics, Cables,
Transducers, Connecting and Terminating Devices.
C. LOCAL CONDITIONS
1) Use of Premises
If private land is used by the Contractor, for staging areas or other construction
purposes, the Contractor shall make all necessary arrangements and shall pay all rental
or other costs connected therewith. The location, construction, maintenance, operation
and removal of the Contractor's staging areas or establishments of all persons or parties
in the vicinity operating or associated with the Contractor, shall be subject to the approval
of the Owner or Engineer. In the event that staging areas for structures and material are
unavailable, the Contractor shall be responsible for unloading structures and other
material at the location of installation.
2) Preconstruction Meeting
An information meeting will be arranged prior to construction, at which time access to the
right of way, safety requirements, construction communications and the location of buried
devices will be discussed. The Owner, the Contractor, and the Engineer will attend this
meeting. The meeting agenda shall include but is not limited to the following: local
conditions, safety, scheduling of any outages if so required, expectations, landowner
relations, and substation safety plan.
D. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1) Safety Precautions for Outages or Work near Energized Lines
All correspondence of this nature shall be addressed to the owner of that line with a copy
to the Owner.
Copies of all communications shall be directed to the Owner and Engineer.
2) Construction Safety Procedures

The Contractor will adhere to all safety practices as described by O.S.H.A. standards.
Hardhat protection, eye, and hand protection are required. Any fines or requirements
imposed by O.S.H.A., Workman's Compensation, or any other authorized safety agency
will be strictly the responsibility of the Contractor.
Construction safety is exclusively the responsibility of the Contractor.
The Contractor shall develop and maintain for the duration of this contract a safety
program that will effectively incorporate and implement all safety provisions. The
Contractor shall appoint an employee who is qualified and authorized to supervise and
enforce compliance with the safety program.
3) Working in Confined Space Precaution

The Contractor shall follow all OSHA regulations concerning work in entering and
working in confined spaces such as underground structures.
E. SANITARY FACILITIES
1) The Contractor shall provide such facilities as required by O.S.H.A. Sanitary facilities will
be located for convenient access and away from drainage inlets and water resources.
Untreated raw waste will not be discharge to land, into drainage inlets, or to water
resources. Location of these facilities shall be acceptable to the Owner. The contractor
shall assume costs associated with these facilities.
F. RECEIVING, TRANSPORTATION, UNLOADING,

INSTALLATION, AND STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT
AND MATERIALS
1) The Contractor shall assume responsibility of Contractor and Owner furnished materials
equipment.
2) Contractor shall provide a material storage yard. Adequate safeguard shall be made to
prevent loss, theft, damage due to storm, moisture, and fire, or damage due to misguided
construction equipment and machines.
3) All necessary inside warehouse storage shall be arranged for and provided by the
Contractor.
G. SITE CLEAN UP AND TRASH DISPOSAL

1) The Contractor shall assume responsibility of Contractor and Owner furnished materials
and equipment.
2) Contractor shall provide a material storage yard. Adequate safeguard shall be made to
prevent loss, theft, damage due to storm, moisture, and fire, or damage due to misguided
construction equipment and machines.
3) All necessary inside warehouse storage shall be arranged for and provided by
contractor.
4) Contractor shall assume responsibility for all environmental protection, as defined in the
U.S. Department of the Interior/U.S. Department of Agriculture publication,
"Environmental Criteria for Electric Transmission Systems".
H. CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULING
1) Prior to commencement of construction, the Contractor shall furnish the Owner and
Engineer with a written tentative construction schedule showing all phases of work to be
performed.
2) Progress reports shall be made by the Contractor, as requested by the Owner or

Engineer, and shall be required as part of the request for partial payment.
3) A preconstruction conference shall precede construction activities. The Contractor and

his superintendent, along with authorized representatives for the Owner, Engineer, and
electric utility shall be in attendance.
I. PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT

1) Personnel and equipment to be utilized by the Contractor during the course of
construction is one factor the Owner will consider when evaluating bids. Bidders shall
complete personnel and equipment data pages included with this document as part of
the proposal and will update as needed prior to construction commencement. Data
pages on installation equipment are also included and shall be completed by the
contractor a minimum of two weeks prior to installation activities. Any bid that excludes
personnel and equipment data may be rejected.
2) If the contractor does not provide additional qualified employees and equipment when
required to under the Contract, no further payment will be made to the Contractor until
construction progress reaches the level shown on the construction schedule.
J. COST ACCOUNTING AND PARTIAL PAYMENTS

1) The Contractor shall provide complete and accurate cost accounting data to the Owner
and Engineer. This data shall include a breakdown by units, with associated cost for
materials and labor, to enable the Owner to assign proper costs to the various plant
accounts. Such may be required when requesting partial payments or upon completion
of the project.
2) Construction contract progress payments and releases of liens are outlined in the
Construction Contract. Sample request for payment forms are included in the Contract.
These forms must be used. Payment requests are to be sent to the Owner and Engineer
for approval.
3) The Contractor shall submit to the Owner and Engineer such schedule of quantities and
costs, progress schedules, payrolls and other records and data as the Owner may
request concerning work performed or to be performed under this contract.
2 LANDOWNER RELATIONS
A. ACCESS
1) Right of Way:
a. The right-of-way for our project is as defined by the Government or UNRA
b. Areas of prohibited travel will be identified by the Owner prior to construction.
c. The activities of the Contractor are to be restricted to along the right of way.
Access roads acceptable to the landowner will be discussed at the
preconstruction conference.
d. Where additional access to the right of way across private property is desired,
the owner and tenant or occupant shall be contacted to obtain permission for
ingress and egress to the right of way. The Contractor shall make such
arrangements, including obtaining releases for damage.
2) Private Property:
a. The landowner will have authority to forbid access if, in his opinion, weather
conditions are adverse to line construction activities. Do not travel on ranch/farm
roads or trails when they are so muddy that damage would result.
b. Do not litter.
c. Do not disturb domestic animals or any wildlife.
d. Conduct yourself as you would expect the landowner to conduct himself if he was
your guest.
e. The Contractor's landowner relations agent shall contact each landowner prior to
the commencement of construction activities on his land. Access and special
problems will be discussed. The Owner or Inspector will be notified of each
landowner contact.
f. The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining any haul agreements required
by state or local authorities.
B. RESTORATION
1) The Contractor shall have a continuous cleanup program throughout construction. The
Contractor shall restore the land that is crossed to its original condition. This restoration
includes the removal of deep ruts and the disposal of foreign objects such as: stumps,
chunks of concrete, pile cut offs, etc. It also includes smoothing and reseeding damaged
vegetation areas with vegetation similar to the original, cleaning out gullies and restoring
terraces. Refer to Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan for additional detail.
2) All general and special conditions of the attached KDWPT Action Permit shall be
followed.
3) At the project's conclusion, a letter will be sent to all landowners. They will be asked to
inspect the right of way across their land and return a signed statement to the Owner or
Inspector. All damage claims must be resolved prior to the final contract payment.
3 FIBER OPTIC CABLE
A. GENERAL
1) The fiber optic cable will consist of an all dielectric self-supporting (ADSS) cable with
loose tube construction and 144single mode fibers.
2) All fiber optic cable installation work shall be done in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendations. The NECA/FOA 301 “Standard for Installing and Testing Fiber Optic
Cable” and ITU-T 2009 manual shall be used as reference. If there is a discrepancy
between the guide and the manufacturer's recommendation, the Contractor shall follow
the manufacturer's recommendation.
3) It is very important to avoid damaging the fiber optic cable and the associated fittings in
any way. It shall be the Contractor's responsibility to protect the cable and fittings
against damage. If the cable and associated materials are damaged due to Contractor's
mishandling, negligence, or faulty equipment, the Contractor shall replace the damaged
sections, including furnishing of necessary materials, in a manner satisfactory to the
Owner or Engineer and at no additional cost to the Owner or Engineer.
B. HANDLING AND STORAGE

1) Prior to installation, reels of fiber optic cable shall be stored blocked up off the ground
and adequately supported so as to avoid damage to reel, protective covering, and cable.
Cable and reels shall be kept free of standing water, excessive dust, and mud.
2) Protective covering shall be removed at the job site and the outside layer of each reel
shall be examined by the Contractor and the Owner or Engineer to be sure that the cable
is in good condition and that no nails, staples, or other sharp objects, which could
damage the wire during unreeling, protrude on the inside of the reel heads.
3) Identification tags and markers shall be retained on the reels. When required, the
Contractor shall record on forms, supplied by the Engineer, the reel number, length of
cable, net weight, and the structure numbers where the cable was installed.
4) Reels shall be lifted, loaded, unloaded, transported and handled in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. Reels shall be lifted or transported by a reel dolly.
C. TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

1) Tools and equipment for fiber optic cable installation shall be of the proper size and type
for the job and shall be in good working condition. Reel carriers, winches, sheaves,
pullers, wire grips, and compressors shall be properly sized for the specific installation
requirements. All tools and equipment shall receive the written approval of the Owner or
Engineer prior to their use.
The Owner or Engineer and the installation Contractor supervisor will inspect all
equipment prior to commencement of the stringing operation.
2) Blocks and sheaves shall have smooth wheels, shall be free running, and shall have the
proper diameter and groove size for the cable being pulled.
D. FIELD CONDITIONS
1) The Contractor shall verify fixed facility locations shown on the Drawings are based upon
the latest design information available at the time thisSpecification was prepared.
2) The Contractor shall conduct field inspections to coordinate, verify and/or determine the
actual as-built locations of conduits, manholes, handholes andall other special facilities
that affect the installation, prior to commencing the installation in any area.
3) All underground structures including conduitand manhole systems, handholes and

related fixtures shall be kept as clean as possible during installation. Labor required for
proofing and cleaning work shall be included in the quote or bid and provided by the
Contractor.
E. PRE CABLE INSTALLATION

1) Ensure the correct product(s) for the project have been received by the Contractor are
compliant to the project’s product specification and have approved for installation by
customer IT. The Contractor should verify part numbers and footages on cable reel
shipping labels, bills of lading, invoices, etc., shall be compared to the original order
upon receipt and beforeinstallation.
2) The Contractor shall inspect fiber optic cable reels for damage upon receipt from the
shipper and verify the receipt of the specified product beforeinstallation.
3) The contractor should verify the length of the cable both visually and by the results of the
OTDR test to verify the project requirements prior to installation.
4) The Contractor will retain the manufacturer’s test data and provide it, along with all other
specified test documentation to customer IT at the completion of the Project.
5) All cable that does not meet the project or required customer IT specification or
approved by customer’s IT shall be removed and replaced at the contractor’s expense.
F. CABLE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1) Cable Handling Precautions
The Contractor shall handle the fiber optic cable in accordance with the manufacturer’s
requirement and shall use care to avoid cable damage during handling and installation.
The fiber optic cable is sensitive to excessive pulling, bending, and crush forces.
Damage to the fiber optic cable may alter the cable’s optical characteristics leading to
excessive optical losses which may require cable or installed cable be removed and
replaced.
2) Maximum Allowable Pulling Tension

The maximum allow pulling tension for the loose tube fiber optic cable shall be 600 lbfF
(2,700 Newton).
3) Maximum Allowable Sidewall Pressure

The maximum allowable sidewall bearing pressure for the fiber optic cable shall be 125
pounds/inches or 1500 pounds/feet.
4) Maximum Fiber Bending Radius
a. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and data sheet for the maximum
bending radius for the individual fibers and for the ADSS cable.
b. The ANSI TIA/EIA-568B.3 Standard requires a bend radius of 1.0 inch under no
pull load and 2.0 inches when subject to tensile loading up to the rated limit.
5) Maximum ADSS Cable Bending Radius
a. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and data sheet for the maximum
bending radius for the for the ADSS cable.
b. As a guideline, The ANSI TIA/EIA-568B.3 Standard requires a bend radius for

ADSS cable of 10 times the cable’s outside diameter under no pull load and 20
times the cable’s outside diameter when subject to tensile load. Refer to figure
below.
6) Minimum Allowable Sheave and Roller Diameters

The minimum allowable diameter for sheaves and rollers for pulling ADSS fiber optic
cable shall not be less than 32-inch diameter.
7) Barricades
Whenever unreeled cable is placed on the pavement or surface above a manhole, the
Contractor shall provide barricades or other means of protect the area from vehicular and
pedestrian traffic.
8) Figure-Eight Configurations
a. The Contractor shall use figure-eight configuration to prevent kinking or twisting

of the ADSS cable when the cable must be unreeled or backfed.
b. The fiber optic cable shall not be coiled in a continuous direction except for
lengths of 100 ft or less. The minimum requirements for the figure-eight
configuration shall be 15 ft in length with each loop being 5 ft to 8 ft in diameter
as shown below:
c. Use Traffic cones spaced 7-8 feet apart as guides during for figure-eighting of the
cable.
d. Use cardboard shims or form a second figure-eight to relieve pressure on the

cable at the crossover of the eight.
e. Do not use automated figure-eight machines that coil fiber optic cable on a drum
as this may lead to exceeding the cable design limits in exceeding torsion,
tension, and bend radii limitations.
9) Liquid Detergents
Never use liquid detergent as a lubricant when placing fiber optic cable. Most detergents
will promote stress cracks when used on polyethylene. Use only cable lubricants with
manufacturer’s approval for polyethylene sheaths.
10) Sealing of Cut Cable Ends

At the completion of a day’s installation, the Contractor shall place cable caps on cut
cable ends followed by applying several wraps of tape around each cap to protect the
cable and prevent water and moisture ingress into the cable
11) When handling cable, always wear; a protective overall, gloves and safety boots
G. PLANNING AND PREPARATION

1) The Contractor shall conduct a survey of the cable route to inspect fiber optic boxes and
determine duct assignments and to identify any potential problems with the cable
installation.
2) The Contractor shall mandrel, slug and or rod ducts to verify suitability for cable pulling
and to remove water, dirt, blockages and to determine the length of the pull.
3) The Contractor shall inspect manholes and fiber boxes in which cables will be spliced
and make plans for closure and cable slack racking.
4) The fiber optic cable must be protected in intermediate pull-through manholes for long
pulls. The Contractor shall determine the racking space so that it will provide maximum
protection for the cable and at the same time maintain the cable minimum bend radius.
5) A cable pull plan shall be developed based upon the cable route survey and the
equipment/ manpower resources available.
6) Inspect cable reels and winch placement locations for the pull and determine the
installation techniques for the pull such as backfeeding or use of intermediate assist
winches.
H. INTIAL REEL TESTING WITH OPTICAL TIME

DOMAIN REFLECTOMETRY (OTDR)
1) The Contractor shall test all the optical fiber of the cables while on the reel prior to
installation. A bullet or divot bare fiber adapter can be used to connect fibers to the
OTDR.
2) The testing shall be done on all fiber’s in one direction at 1550nm using a pulse width of
30ns.
3) The traces shall be stored and an electronic copy submitted to the project manager and
Owner.
4) No cable shall be installed without performing an OTDR pre-test to determine that the
cable was not damage during shipment or transport to the installation location.
5) The OTDR used for testing shall be capable of a minimum 28 dB for single-mode fiber
testing at 1550 nm
6) The optical light source shall be a stabilized light source capable of generating both 1310
and 1550 nm wavelengths, equipped with SC connectors compatible with single-mode
fibers, nominal optical power of -2 dBm and Class 2 rated red laser (635-670 nm)
I. EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES

1) Pull-Line
a. The pull line shall consist of a minimum ½-inch diameter polyester or polyaramid
pulling rope to be used in conjunction with a pulling which. Nylon type ski ropes
shall not be used due to their high stretch factor.
2) Pulling Grips
b. Use a field-installed wire mesh pulling grip for pulling the fiber optic cable.
3) Swivel
c. Place a ball-bearing type swivel between the grip and the pull line to minimize
rotation and twisting of the cable during installation.
4) Lubricants
a. Use a cable pulling lubricant for the fiber optic cable pulls to reduce frictional
forces and minimize pulling tensions.
b. The Contractor shall use a cable lubricants which is compatible with the fiber
optic cable’s outer sheath. Polywater F is the recommended cable lubricant for
cable which will be pulled in the conduits.
c. Apply the lubricant based on the manufacturer’s instructions
d. Apply additional lubricant before bends and severe offsets and sections with
“uphill” elevation changes.
5) Tension-Monitoring Equipment
a. The Contractor shall monitor and record the fiber optic cable pulling tensions
during the pull and not exceed the maximum pulling tension as exceeding the
specified maximum tension will void the warranty of the fiber optic cable.
b. A dynamometer or in-line tensiometer may be used to monitor tension in the pull-

line near the winch. The device must be visible to the winch operator or used to
control the winch.
c. A breakaway swivel must also be used to ensure that the maximum tension of
the cable is not exceeded. The swivel shall be used as fail-safe mechanism and
shall not replace the monitoring and recording of puling tensions during the pull.
6) Pulling Equipment
a. All pulling equipment and hardware which will contact the cable during
installation must maintain the cable’s minimum bend radius. Such equipment
includes sheaves, capstans, bending shoes, and quadrant blocks designed for
use with fiber optic cable.
b. Situations that require use of a radius-maintaining device are at feed and pull
manholes, at bends, and where entrance and exit ducts in a manhole are offset.
J. ACCEPTABLE INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES

The Contractor can use the pulling technique best suited for the installation in order to
minimize splices and not exceed pulling tensions. Acceptable pulling techniques are
indicated below. The length of cable that can be pulled in one operation will vary with
duct conditions, the equipment used, pulling technique selected, and the skill of the
craftsmen. Normally, a short pull [less than 3000 ft (913 m)] with two or fewer 90-degrees
bends may be pulled without an intermediate-assist winch or hand assistance.
1) Point to Point Pulling
a. For shorter pulls, feed the cable at the manhole and pull the cable directly to the
receiving or end manhole on the pull.
2) Center-Pulls and Backfeeding
a. Longer cable pulls, or those involving many bends, center-pull and “backfeeding”
techniques can be used.
b. Place the reel at the near the center of the duct run to be pulled. Pull the cable in
one direction to the next designated splice point.
c. Pay-off the cable from the top of the reel in the direction of the arrow indicate on
the cable and do not place reverse bends in the cables
d. Unreel the remaining cable in a figure-eight configuration.
e. Flip over the figure-eight so that the pulling-eye end of the cable is on top.
f. Pull the exposed end of the cable in the opposite direction to complete the pull.
Hand tend the cable paying off from the figure-eight during the pull.
3) Backfeeding
a. The Contractor may use backfeeding to provide for a series of shorter, lower-
tension pulls in one direction.
b. Place the reel at one end of the duct run to be pulled.
c. Pull the cable to the next manhole and pull enough cable out of the manhole to
reach the intended end point of the pull, plus racking and splicing slack.
d. Figure-eight the cable at it emerges from the manhole.
e. Flip over the figure-eight so that the pulling-eye end of the cable is on top.
f. Attach the pulling eye to the next section of the pull-line and hand feed the cable
back into the manhole and pull the cable to the next manhole.
K. POST INSTALLATION OTDR TESTING

1) The Contractor shall test all the optical fiber of the cables after pulling in the conduit and
before splicing of the cable. A bullet or divot bare fiber adapter can be used to
connect fibers to the OTDR.
2) The testing shall be done on all fiber’s in one direction at 1310nm and 1550nm using
a pulse width of 30ns.
3) The traces shall be stored and an electronic copy submitted to the project manager
and Owner.
4) No cable shall be installed without performing an OTDR pre-test to determine that

the cable was not damage during shipment or transport to the installation location.
L. REELS AND EXCESS CONDUCTOR

1) When wire is furnished by the Owner, the Contractor shall be responsible for salvaging
the wire reels and all excess conductor and overhead ground wire. All such wire shall be
inventoried, placed on non-returnable reels, and returned to the Owner or disposed non-
returnable as directed by the Owner or Engineer.
2) Returnable reels shall be shipped back to the wire fabricators in accordance with the
Owner's instruction. Non-returnable wooden reels shall be disposed of in a manner
meeting the approval of the Owner or Engineer.
3) All costs associated with the receiving, handling, shipping, placement on nonreturnable
reels, or disposal of excess wire and reels shall be in the labor costs for installation of
wire units.
4) Reels include a minimum 3% overage in length. Loss or use above this amount shall be
at the expense of the contractor.
4 MANAGEMENT OF CABLE SLACK LOOPS
A. LENGTH
1) Leave a length of 50 feet of slack loop at intermediate pulling manholes
2) Leave 50 feet of slack loop in each cable entering a splice closure in splice manholes or
splice boxes. For two cables leave a total of 100 feet.
B. COILING AND STORING

1) Install slack brackets in manholes and hand holes walls to secure and support slack loop
of cables.
2) Tie the coils of slack loop with plastic tie wraps or use PVC tape at 3-foot intervals.
3) Coil in the slack loop inside manholes and hand holes in a ‘clock-wise’ direction with
minimal back tension.
4) Ensure that the cable slack loops of one splice closure do not become inter-twined
with the slack loops of other splice closures in the hand holes or manholes.
5) Hang the slack loop coils vertically and separate from one other
6) Bundle the slack loops together in groups of relevance.
7) Do not route cables in such a manner that they block ducts.
8) Used ducts must be sealed between cable and duct.
5 SPLICES AND SPLICE CLOSURES
A. SPLICING ADSS CABLE TO ADSS CABLE
1) Splicing of the cable shall be done in a protected environment such as splice truck or van
2) Splicing shall be done in accordance with the cable manufacturer’s drawings and
instruction
3) All splicing shall be by fusion splicing
4) Following splicing of the fibers, the splice closure shall be fully assembled and mounted
in the manhole or hand hole
5) The cable shall be coiled in slack loop behind the splice closure
B. SPLICING ADSS CABLE TO OPGW CABLE

1) Splicing of the cable shall be done in a protected environment such as splice truck or van
2) Splicing shall be done in accordance with the cable manufacturer’s drawings and
instruction
3) All splicing shall be by fusion splicing
4) Following splicing of the fibers, the splice closure shall be fully assembled and mounted
on the transition pole.
5) The cable shall be coiled in slack loop and stored on the slack loop bracket on the pole.
C. SPLICE CLOSURE
1) Splice closures for handhole, manholes and transition poles shall be Preformed Line
Products Coyote Dome type and shall be sized as required for the maximum fiber count
within the splicecase including distribution fibers.
2) All closures shall be pressure tested. No encapsulate shall be used onfiber enclosures.
3) Install only the splice enclosure manufacturer’s specified splice trays. Splice only 12
fibers per splice tray with no exceptions.
4) Splice trays shall be labeled with a permanent label on the front face of each splice tray
indicating fiber count.
5) Support all closures with manufacturers approved brackets.
6 FINAL ACCEPTANCE TESTING
A. TESTS TO BE CONDUCTED
Perform the tests listed below as acceptance testing after the splices and terminations
have been completed and while the splice crews are still on-site. The testing sequence
is as follows:
1) Conduct a continuity test on each fiber to ensure that no transpositions have occurred.
2) Conduct insertion loss tests.

3) Perform communication system testing using certified fiber optic technicians approved by
Owner.
4) Provide the date, time, and location of required tests to the Owner at least 24 hours
before performing the test.
5) After completing cable installation, splicing, and termination, test all fibers for continuity,
events losses, and total attenuation of the cable as follows:
a. Conduct visual inspections of splice connectors.
b. Test each individual fiber for event losses using an OTDR. Conduct the test using
the standard operating procedure as defined by the manufacturer of the test
equipment.
c. Connect the OTDR and the cable with a factory patch cord of a length equal to
the dead zone of the OTDR. Optionally, the technician can use a factory fiber box
of 325 feet minimum with no splices within the box.
d. Test each individual fiber for total segment attenuation loss using an optical
source/power meter. Conduct the test using the standard operating procedure as
defined by the manufacturer of the test equipment.
e. Conduct both tests, OTDR and optical source/power meter, at 1310 nm and 1550
nm for each fiber in the cable.
f. Conduct both tests bi-directionally for each fiber in the cable.
g. Analyze the results in order to generate a list that details the bi-directional splice
losses for each fiber at each splice point.
h. Indicate passing (Y/N) for each fiber and connector as required.
i. Provide calibration date of test equipment used.
6) If any splices showing high losses above the established criteria are detected, conduct a
cleanup and re-splice (re-burn) to reduce the loss.
7) Conduct bidirectional OTDR tests on fibers that have been re-spliced and documented
with traces.
B. TEST DOCUMENTATION TO BE PROVIDED

1) After completing the tests, submit 5 hard copies of the test results to the engineer
documenting the following test parameters:
Operator name Setup parameters Pulse width OTDR Range OTDR

Date and time Wavelength Refractory index OTDR Scale OTDR
2) Summarize the results of both the OTDR and optical source/power meter tests in
spreadsheet/tabular format adhering to the following requirements:
a. List fiber optic segment name including route, start point, and end point.
b. List all fibers by number.
c. List direction of test as NB, SB, EB, or WB.
d. List total fiber optic cable length for each fiber as documented in the OTDR test.
e. List attenuation in dB of gain or loss for each fiber optic event in the OTDR test.
f. List fiber optic loss event descriptions and locations including splices,
miscellaneous events, and terminations.
g. List the attenuation across the cable in dB/mile for each fiber tested.
h. List the total segment loss for each fiber as determined by the optical
source/power meter test.
i. Provide bi-directional data including event distances, event descriptions, and

attenuation losses for each fiber corresponding to a common start point
j. Provide bi-directional data on separate lines, side-by-side within the same sheet.
k. Provide 1310 nm and 1550 nm test results on separate sheets in identical

formats.
3) Provide copies of the fiber cable traces taken during the OTDR test to the Owner for
review. Provide electronic files in a universal file format, or with software to view the files.
C. ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA
1) Ensure that test results demonstrate that the dB/mile loss does not exceed plus 3
percent of the factory test or plus one percent of the cable's published production loss.
The Owner will consider the error rate for the test equipment in evaluating results.
2) Event losses are an average for each direction tested, and are limited to the following
values as shown in Table 6-1:
Table 6-1 Allowable Optical Losses
EVENT TYPE ALLOWABLE LOSS
Fusion Splicing 0.10 dB
ST Connector 0.50 dB
Other miscellaneous events 0.10 dB
Total loss across the cable[1] 1 dB/km
[1] Including events and cable attenuation.

D. TEST EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
1) OTDR: Dynamic range capable of a minimum 28 dB for single-mode fiber testing at 1550
nm
2) Inspection Microscope: Minimum 200 x magnification
3) Optical Light Source
a. Stabilized light source
b. Capable of generating both 1310 and 1550 nm wavelengths
c. Equipped with SC connectors
d. Compatible with single-mode fibers
e. Nominal optical power of -2 dBm
f. Class 2 rated red laser (635-670 nm)
4) Power Meter
a. Capable of reading 1310, 1550, and 1625 nm
b. Provides a minimum +3 dB to -60 dB range
5) Launch Cord:
a. 1.0 Km single-mode fiber launch box with -55 dB UPC-FC finish connector on the
OTDR side, and -55 dB UPC-SC finish connector on the side panel (100-meter
cord acceptable if OTDR has 50 ns pulse width setting; front-end connector must
be visible)
6) Test Patch Cord:
a. At least 1 to 5 meters in length
b. Provided with SC connectors
c. Having the same core fiber as the fiber optic facility to be tested
7 DRAWINGS
This section partially lists drawings and other technical attachments. The documents
listed are provided with the specifications and shall be part of the contract.
Table 9-1 provides a partial list of drawings and other technical documents attached to
the specifications.
Table 7-1 List of Attached Drawings and Technical Documents
Rev.
Drawing No. or Other /Ver. No. Date Title
Designation
Duct Installation of
| PRETERMINATED SYSTEMS | CABLES | CONNECTORS | CAbLe ASSembLIeS | HARDWARE | TOOL KITS AND ACCESSORIES | TEST EQUIPMENT | SPLICE EQUIPMENT | FAN-OUT KITS | TRAINING
Fiber Optic Cable
p/n 005-011, Issue 11
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.1. Confined Space Precaution
WARNING: Follow all OSHA regulations concerning confined space entry and work.
1.2. Lead Exposure Warning

WARNING: Lead dust may be released into the manhole atmosphere any time the sheath of older lead
sheath cable is disturbed. When working in manholes, precautions must be taken to limit the amount of
exposure to lead. Strictly observe your company’s lead handling procedures to eliminate this hazard.
Failure to do so may result in serious, long-term health problems.
1.3. Cable Handling Precautions
CAUTION: Care must be taken to avoid cable damage during handling and placing. Fiber optic cable
is sensitive to excessive pulling, bending, and crush forces. Any such damage may alter the cable’s
characteristics to the extent that the cable section may have to be replaced. To ensure all specifications
are met, consult the specific cable specification sheet for the cable you are installing.
1.4. Corning Cable Systems’ cable specification sheets are available which list the maximum tensile
load for various cable types. The maximum pulling tension for stranded loose tube cable and ribbon cable
is 600 lbF (2,700 Newtons).
1.5. Corning Cable Systems’ cable specification sheets also list the minimum cable bend radius both
“Loaded” (during installation) and “Installed” (after installation). If these sheets are not available on the
job-site, the following formulas may be used to determine general guidelines for installing Corning Cable
Systems’ fiber optic cable:
To arrive at a working bend radius for cable installation, multiply 15 times (15 x) the cable outside diameter.
Example:
Cable
Cable Diameter = 0.46 in (11.8 mm)
15 x 0.46 in = 6.9 in (177 mm) Bend
Minimum Working Bend Radius = 6.9 in (17.7 cm) radius 2 x 6.9 in =
13.8 in (35.4 cm)
To find the minimum diameter requirement for pull wheels
or rollers, simply double the minimum working bend radius.
TPA-3104
1.6. Whenever unreeled cable is placed on the pavement

or surface above a manhole, provide barricades or other
means of preventing vehicular Cardboard
shims
or pedestrian traffic through the area.
8 ft
1.7. The figure-eight configuration should be used to (1.5 m)
prevent kinking or twisting when the cable must be unreeled

or backfed.
Fiber optic cable should not be coiled in a continuous direction
except for lengths of 100 ft (30 m) or less. The preferred size
for the figure-eight is about 15 ft (4.5 m) in length, with each
loop 5 ft (1.5 m) to 8 ft (2.4 m) in diameter. TPA-3105
STANDARD RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE 005-011 | ISSUE 11 | September 2010 | PAGE 1 OF 9

Traffic cones spaced 7-8 feet apart are useful as guides during figure-eighting. When figure-eighting long
lengths of cable, care should be taken to relieve pressure on the cable at the crossover of the eight. This can
be done by placing cardboard shims at the crossover or by forming a second figure-eight.
WARNING: Automated figure-eight machines that coil fiber optic cable on a drum may exceed cable design
limits by exceeding torsion, tension, and bend radii limitations. Do not use automated figure-eight machines
when installing fiber optic cables with a central tube design or any loose tube cable having one or more layers
of corrugated steel armor. Use of these machines may result in the cable’s jacket being breached and the armor
being exposed.
1.8. Fiber optic cable which passes through manholes containing petroleum-based waste will require special
protection. Some petroleum products will deteriorate the cable’s polyethylene sheath. Consult your company’s
practices regarding manholes and petroleum-based waste for specific instructions on how to remove the
petroleum. Install innerduct that is impervious to future petroleum exposure.
CAUTION: Never use liquid detergent as a lubricant when placing fiber optic cable. Most detergents will
promote stress cracks when used on polyethylene. Use only cable lubricants with manufacturer’s approval for
polyethylene sheaths.
1.9. At the completion of a day’s installation, protect bare cable ends by placing a cable cap on the end of
the cable, followed by several wraps of tape around each cap. This will assist the moisture-resisting material
in Corning Cable Systems’ loose-tube cable in preventing water ingress due to long-term exposure to moisture.
If a cap is not available, a few wraps of tape placed on the tip of the cable should prevent water from entering
the cable.
NOTE: If the cable ends are not capped while exposed to the environment for long periods of time, the
customer may choose (but is not required) to cut off three feet (one meter) of each cable end before
splicing. This will ensure that no moisture ingress is present.
Rodding
2. PLANNING AND PREPARATION
2.1. It is recommended that an outside plant engineer
conduct a survey of the cable route. Manholes and ducts
should be inspected to determine the optimum splice point
locations and duct assignments. Identify potential problems
with innerduct and cable placement at this time.
2.2. Rodding or slugging may be required to verify duct

suitability and accurate length. Cable cut length is especially
critical when installing factory-connectorized cables.
Winch 3
LAST PULL MH 11
2.3. Inspect manholes in which cables will be spliced and Figure-eight and flip
make plans for closure and cable slack racking. Be sure to Manned or equipped
with large diameter wheel
Winch 2
MH 8 MH 9 MH 10
consider the accessibility of manholes to splicing vehicles. FIRST PULL
TPA-3120
2.4. Fiber optic cable must be protected in intermediate MH 5 MH 6 MH 7

2nd PULL
manholes. Carefully choose racking space so that it will provide Manned or equipped
with large diameter wheel
MH 3 MH 4
maximum protection for the cable and maintain its minimum INTERMEDIATE
bend radius. ASSIST WINCH
MH 2
2.5. Based upon the cable route survey and the equipment/
manpower resources available, develop a cable pull plan.
MH 1
Winch 1
Bullwheel at each 90
Inspect potential reel and winch locations for their suitability and make plans for installation techniques such as
backfeeding or use of intermediate assist winches.

2.6. Factors to consider in developing the pull plan include
changes in elevation and the locations of bends and offsets.
 For ease of installation, pull cables from higher
elevation manholes to lower ones, whenever possible.
 Bends describe pronounced turns in the routing of a
duct system.
 Offsets in a duct system are more gradual variations Bend
from the ideal, straight path of a duct section. Offsets

can impose greatly increased pulling tension.
For example, a three foot offset in a 10-foot run of duct Offset
can add an estimated 120 lbF of tension to a pull1.
To minimize the effect of bends and offsets, begin such
pulls at the end of the innerduct section nearest the
difficult area. TPA-3121
1
John Anderson, “Assist Device Proves Itself In Long F O Pulls” Outside Plant, March 1986, p 40.
3. INSTALLATION EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES

Innerduct
3.1. Innerduct is a way to subdivide the duct and to provide for future cable pulls. Three 1.25-inch inside
diameter (I.D.) innerducts can usually be pulled into a 4-inch duct. Proper size and installation of the innerduct
is critical for ease of cable installation.
3.2. Innerduct is available in ribbed, corrugated, and

smooth-walled constructions of polyethylene or PVC material.
Corning Cable Systems’ fiber optic cable is compatible TPA-3122
with all major brands of innerduct. Consult your company’s

practices for innerduct specifications.
3.3. Fill ratios are calculated by comparing the area of an inner diameter cross-section of the innerduct to
the outer diameter cross-section area of the fiber optic cable. Larger diameter innerducts (which result in
smaller fill ratios) will normally reduce pulling tension.
To calculate a fill ratio, use the following formulas from
the chart. For a quick calculator, see
www.corning.com/cablesystems/fillratio
3.4. Multiple cables may be pulled simultaneously

into one innerduct. Pulling a new fiber optic cable over
an existing one is not recommended due to the possibility
of entanglement. TPA-3257
3.5. Should an innerduct become twisted during installation, the twisting (helixing) can dramatically increase
pulling tension during cable installation. Corrugated innerduct has less “memory” than other types of innerduct,
and may tend to lay flatter in the duct.
3.6. Innerduct often stretches during installation. Allowance must be made for the relaxation of this stretch
by planning for extra slack to be pulled into manholes.
3.7. At points where innerduct will be continuous through a manhole, allow sufficient slack so that the
innerduct may be secured on the manhole racks and maintain the cable’s minimum bend radius.

3.8. At points where the innerduct is not continuous through a manhole, some provision must be made to
provide a section to cover the cable in the manhole during and after placement. This may be accomplished
through one of the following methods:
a. Couplers which “splice’’ innerduct sections together are available from most innerduct
manufacturers. Do not use couplers which reduce the inside diameter of the innerduct.
b. Split duct may be applied to the cable during racking
c. A section of innerduct which has an inside diameter greater than the outside diameter
of the installed innerduct may be used in a sleeve operation. This section of innerduct must be slid
over the innerduct coming from the entrance duct BEFORE the pull-line is installed. The section of
larger innerduct must be long enough to reach from the entrance duct to the exit duct while passing
around the periphery of the manhole where it will be racked, plus an additional 9 ft (3 m)
on each end which will be inside the duct bank after racking.
3.9. After placement, all innerduct must be capped or plugged to prevent moisture or foreign matter from
entering until the cable installation starts.
Pull-Line
3.10. Various types of pull-line have been used successfully with fiber optic cable. Pull-lines can be of either
a round or flat cross section. Selection of a pull-line will depend upon the length and conditions of the pull.
Small diameter pull-line may have a tendency to cut innerduct when under tension.
3.11. Available pull-line materials include wire rope, polypropylene, and aramid yarn. For pulls using winches,
materials with low elasticity such as wire rope and aramid yarn can minimize surge-induced fluctuation in pull-
line tension. Consult your company’s standard practices with regards to pull-line materials.
3.12. Some innerduct is available with preinstalled pull tape or line. Otherwise, pull-line can be installed by
rodding or blowing. Lubrication of the pull-line may be necessary for ease of installation or to prevent the line
from cutting the innerduct.
Pulling Grips
3.13. Corning Cable Systems recommends the use of a

factory or field-installed wire mesh pulling grip and swivel
during cable pulls. Pulling grips provide effective coupling Wire mesh pulling grip
of pulling loads to the jacket, aramid yarn, and central
member of fiber optic cables.
3.14. For instructions on field installation, refer to SRP 004-137, Installing a Wire Mesh Pulling Grip.
3.15. The use of a swivel between the pull-line and pulling grip is required to prevent the pull-line from
imparting a twist to the cable. A swivel that contains ball-bearings is recommended to prevent binding at
high tensions.
Lubricants
3.16. Cable lubricant is recommended for most fiber optic cable pulls
as a means of lowering pulling tension. Short hand-pulls may not require
lubricant. Considerations in choosing a lubricant are material compatibility,
drying time, temperature performance, and handling characteristics.
3.17. As noted in the cable precautions, cable lubricants must be

compatible with the fiber optic cable’s outer sheath. Refer to the lubricant
manufacturer’s specifications. Use of incompatible liquids, such as liquid
detergent, for a lubricant can cause long term sheath damage. TPA-3124

3.18. Lubricant should be applied according to the
manufacturer’s recommendations. Some lubricant vendors Swab
recommend an applicator to coat the cable as it enters the Pull line
innerduct, others suggest distributing lubricant throughout the
innerduct by pulling a swab through the innerduct as part of the Swivel
TPA-3125
pull-line placement. Pumps or gravity feed devices can also be

used to inject lubricant into the innerduct.
3.19. Additional lubricant should be added before bends and known severe offsets and sections with
“uphill” elevation changes.
Tension-Monitoring Equipment
3.20. Fiber optic cable is subject to damage if the cable’s specified maximum tensile force is exceeded.
Except for short runs or hand-pulls, tension must be monitored. Refer to cable specification sheets for
maximum tension. Exceeding the specified maximum tension will void the warranty of the cable product.
3.21. The use of a winch with a calibrated maximum tension is an acceptable procedure. The control device
on such winches can be hydraulic or in the form of a slip clutch. Such winches should be calibrated frequently.
3.22. The use of a breakaway link (swivel) can be used to ensure that the maximum tension of the cable
is not exceeded. Breakaway links react to tension at the pulling eye and should be used as a fail-safe rather
than a primary means of monitoring tension.
3.23. A dynamometer or in-line tensiometer may also

be used to monitor tension in the pull-line near the winch.
This device must be visible to the winch operator or used
to control the winch. Special winches are available that
monitor the tension remotely at the pulling eye via a wire
in the pull-line. Such winches may also provide a record
TPA-3126
of the tension during pulls.
NOTE: Carefully select equipment that maintains bend radius. Not all outside plant equipment is
well-suited for fiber optic cable installation.
Pulling Equipment
3.24. All pulling equipment and hardware which will contact the cable during installation must maintain the
cable’s minimum bend radius. Such equipment includes sheaves, capstans, bending shoes, and quadrant
blocks designed for use with fiber optic cable.
3.25. Situations that require use of a radius-maintaining device are encountered at feed and pull manholes,
at bends, and where entrance and exit ducts in a manhole are offset.
4. INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES
4.1. Various techniques are available to ease the
installation of long lengths of fiber optic cable. All have been
used extensively in the field.
4.2. The length of cable that can be pulled in one

operation will vary with duct conditions, the equipment used,
pulling technique selected, and the skill of the craftsmen.
Normally, a short pull [less than 3000 ft (913 m)] with two
or fewer 90-degrees bends may be pulled without an
intermediate-assist winch or hand assistance. TPA-3127

4.3. Use of multiple winches requires compatible pulling
equipment and careful coordination of winch speeds. Consult
the equipment manufacturer’s instructions for necessary details.
Center-Pulls and Backfeeding

4.4. Longer cable pulls, or those involving many bends, may
also use center-pull and “backfeeding” techniques.
4.5. In a center-pull operation, set up the cable reel near the

center of the duct run to be pulled. Pull the cable in one direction
to the next designated splice point.
TPA-3128
4.6. Unreel the remaining cable in a figure-eight configuration.
4.7. Flip over the figure-eight so that the pulling-eye end of TPA-3129
the cable is on top. This can be easily accomplished by three

installers, one at each end of the eight, and one at the center.
4.8. Pull the exposed end of the cable in the opposite

direction to complete the pull. Hand tending of the cable
paying off from the figure-eight is normally required.
TPA-3130
Backfeeding
4.9. “Backfeeding” may be used to provide a series
of shorter, lower-tension pulls in one direction. When
backfeeding, pull enough cable out of the manhole to reach
the intended end point of the pull, plus racking and splicing
slack. This cable should be figure-eighted as it emerges
from the manhole.
4.10. Flip over the figure-eight so that the pulling-eye

end of the cable is on top. This can be easily accomplished
by three installers, one at each end of the eight, and one at
the center. TPA-3131

4.11. After the pulling eye is connected to the next
section of the pull-line, feed the cable by hand back into
the manhole and pull it to its next destination. The cable
may be pulled directly from a figure-eight by a winch,
provided the capstan or sheave used at the entry
manhole ensures sufficient bend radius. Hand tending of
cable paying off from figure-eights is normally required.
WARNING: Before pulling cable directly from a
figure-eight, make sure that the area inside the loops
of the cable is clear of personnel and equipment.
Failure to do so may result in injury to personnel or TPA-3132
damage to the cable.
5. INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
5.1. This section will provide an overview of an installation operation. As noted earlier, your company’s
practices and local conditions may take precedence over these guidelines.
5.2. Prepare the manholes in the duct section where the cable is to be placed:
a. Place barricades
b. Monitor gas
c. Establish ventilation
d. Pump water
e. Inspect ladders, racks, and duct banks
5.3. If not already in place, install the innerduct and pull-line. Tie down exposed innerduct in manholes to
prevent dragging of innerduct during pulling operations.
Relocate existing utilities if necessary.
5.4. Set up winches, monitoring devices, lubrication points, bend radius devices (sheaves, capstans,
bending shoes, etc.), and means of communications along the route prescribed in the pull plan.
5.5. Locate the cable reels at the appropriate points of the route.
5.6. Remove reel lagging and retrieve the cable data sheets (if present) from each reel for your company’s
as-built records.
5.7. Inspect the reels and equipment on which they are mounted for any bolts, nails or other protrusions
that could damage the cable as it is paid off.
5.8. Ensure that the reel trailer or jack stands are stable, and that the reel may turn freely without binding.
The reel must be level to allow proper pay off of cable.
NOTE: Jack stands can be unstable if not set up properly. Consult your company’s practices if jack
stands are going to be used in your installation.
5.9. Align the reel at the feed hole so that the cable can be routed from the top of the reel into the duct
bank in as straight a path as possible.
5.10. If not previously installed, attach the pulling grip to the cable, and attach the grip to a swivel. The
swivel should be securely fastened to the pull-line. See the pull-line manufacturer’s recommendations for
appropriate knots.

5.11. A warning marker (colored tape or similar material) may be attached to the pull-line several feet in
front of the pulling grip to alert observers at manholes that the cable is approaching.
5.12. Apply cable lubricant as required.

5.13. Verify that communication lines are functional and crews are in place at feed, pull, and
intermediate manholes.
5.14. Start the pull at a slow speed, passing the pull-line and cable over and around the capstans, sheaves,
and other devices required to maintain the minimum bend radius. Begin tension monitoring with a calibrated
device as soon as tension is applied to the cable. If necessary, aid the cable feed by turning the reel by hand.
Ensure that the cable is fed only as fast as the pull-line is moving. Back tension on the reel will prevent too
much cable being fed off.
5.15. Once the cable has moved a minimum of 5 ft (1.3 m) into the innerduct, accelerate the pull smoothly
to its intended speed [50-100 ft (15.2-30.4 m) per minute is desirable].
5.16. Continue the pull at a steady rate. If it is necessary to stop the pull at any point, the winch operator
should stop the pull, but NOT release the tension unless instructed to do so. Pulls can be easily resumed if
tension is maintained on the pull-line and cable.
5.17. The cable should be visually observed during the following situations:
a. When it passes through any intermediate manhole in which innerduct continuity is broken.
b. Where use of a radius-maintaining device is required due to a bend or offset of entrance
and exit ducts.
c. At intermediate-assist winches.
5.18. Ensure that the bend radius is maintained, and that the cable is properly routed through the sheaves,
capstans, bending shoes, etc.. Stop the pull if the cable is misrouted, and correct the problem before
resuming. If the innerduct is being pulled along with the cable, stop the pull and secure the innerduct with
temporary cable ties.
5.19. When the cable end reaches a backfeed point or splice point manhole, pull the cable out of the hole
using a setup similar to that at the feed hole to maintain bend radius.
After passing around the winch, the cable slack should be figure-eighted in an area where it will not be subject
to damage by personnel or traffic. Follow the procedure in Step 4.9 for flipping the figure-eight so
that the pulling grip end of the cable will be on top before the pull is resumed.
NOTE: Pulls which have a large number of intermediate manholes will require a large quantity of cable
slack. This slack must be pulled from the two end points and backfed to provide racking slack.
5.20. At splice points, pull sufficient slack (typically

40 ft [10 m] of slack from the lip of the manhole) to reach
the intended splicing location, plus enough slack to permit
closure preparation and splicing.
5.21. Verify and record the distance markings printed on

the cable for as-built documentation.
TPA-3133

5.22. Once the cable is pulled into place and appropriate slack is available at splice or termination points,
begin securing all the innerduct to cable racks on the manhole walls. Begin racking at the center manhole and
proceed to the end manholes. Maintain the cable’s specific minimum bend radius.
5.23. At points where the innerduct is continuous

through the manhole, push the innerduct and cable
to the rack and secure with appropriate cable ties.
Maintain the cable’s minimum bend radius.
5.24. If the innerduct is not continuous, rack the split

duct, or the larger outside diameter section of innerduct
before the pull. TPA-3134
5.25. Store coiled splicing slack in the splicing manholes so

that it is not likely to be damaged during later work in the
manhole. If possible, store the slack in an enclosure designed
to store splicing slack and a splice closure. Place an end cap
on any bare cable ends to prevent moisture or dirt intrusion.
TPA-3135
5.26. Fiber optic warning signs should be placed on

all innerduct containing fiber optic cable. Warning signs WARNING
FIBER OPTIC
can help prevent damage resulting from the cable being CABLE
mistaken for something else.
TPA-3136
Corning Cable Systems LLC • PO Box 489 • Hickory, NC 28603-0489 USA

1-800-743-2671 • FAX +1-828-325-5060 • International +1-828-901-5000 • http://www.corning.com/cablesystems
Corning Cable Systems reserves the right to improve, enhance, and modify the features and specifications of Corning Cable Systems’ products without prior notification. Altos
is a registered trademark of Corning Cable Systems Brands, Inc. SST-Ribbon and SST-UltraRibbon and trademarks of Corning Cable Systems Brands, Inc. All trademarks are
the properties of their respective owners. Corning Cable Systems is ISO 9001 certified.
© 1988, 1998, 2001, 2008, 2010 Corning Cable Systems. All rights reserved. Published in the USA.

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RONTECH GROUP

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

INSTALLATION GUIDE FOR OPTICAL FIBRE CABLE

DATE: April 19, 2013

PURPOSE: The purpose of this Standard Operating Policy/Procedure (SOP) is to

1 - Safety Warnings ........................................................................................................................... 3

Important Remark: Installation is to be performed by qualified service personnel

Risks of optical fibre fragments piercing the skin (and

Risks from exposure to the eyes from optical power

If fibre optic cable contains metal (for example:

The work should be carried out in well-ventilated

Precautions should be taken to avoid contact with

Eating and smoking should not be permitted in the

In case of contamination a basic First Aid kit should be

All chemicals should be stored in clearly and correctly

Exposed optical fibre ends must be kept away from

Waste fragments should be treated with care and

Adaptors within Patch Panel closures and free

The user should ensure that all authorized personnel

Never install a fibre optic cable if temperature is below

For reasons of safety, always unroll cable by the

During the delivery of the optical cable the off-loading

If fibre optic cable is installed in the same tray as

At both cable ends, it’s recommended to leave a few

Always cut first meters of cable as this part can be

Never forget to place a wedge to avoid that the reel

Storage temperature range is specified for each cable

Indoor cables must not be stored outside to prevent

If several reels are stored at the same place, take care

5.1 Pre-installation procedure

Before pulling the cable, to ensure of the stability of

To avoid possible damage from a sudden stop, the

The route defined by the design should be accessible

The installer should establish that the environmental

Any measure necessary should be taken to prevent

The installer should determine the locations at which

Where necessary, the minimum quantity of ceiling

The installer should ensure that all necessary guards,

All of the glass fibre used by Rontech is manufactured

6.2 Buffer types

6.2.2 Micro tube Buffered Fibre

6.2.3 Loose Buffered Fibre

6.3 Strength Members

7 - FIBRE OPTIC CABLE SPECIFICATIONS

7.1 Tensile Strength

7.2 Bend Radius

7.3 Crush and Impact

Impact testing is documented in IEC794-1-E4 with the

8 - FIBRE OPTIC CABLE INSTALLATIONS

8.1 Interbuilding / Outside Plant

8.2 Direct Burial

8.3 Underground Conduit:

Two ways to install fibre optic cable into conduit:

8.5.1.3 Cable in Trays

8.5.1.4 All Pathways and Spaces

8.5.1.5 Vertical or Riser

9 - Fibre Optic Cable handling procedures

After cable pulling, if the cable is not directly

In case of partial use of a cable, both ends of the

9.2 Jacket Removal:

9.2.1 Patch cables:

9.2.2 Distribution cables:

9.2.3 Breakout cables:

9.2.4 Outside Plant cables: