Fiber Optic Splicers & Installers
Fiber optic cables carry internet and phone traffic on glass strands thinner than a hair. Splicers work on poles, in vaults and in trailers. The tiny fibers and invisible light create hazards that look nothing like construction, plus the usual dangers of working outdoors.
- Telecom
- Installers
- Outside Plant
Fiber-specific hazards
- Glass shards: cut fiber ends are razor-sharp and nearly invisible. They can pierce skin and eyes or be swallowed. Dispose of scraps in a labeled container with a lid; do not leave them on the floor or in clothing.
- Invisible laser light: the light used in fiber systems is infrared and cannot be seen, yet it can damage the eye. Never look into a fiber end or a connector, and never use a microscope to look at a fiber that may be live unless it is checked with a power meter and, ideally, a filter. See RF, Microwave & Laser Hazards.
- Chemicals: isopropyl alcohol and cleaners are flammable; cable gel and adhesives irritate skin. Follow SDSs.
- Fusion splicer heat and electricity: the arc is hot; protect against burns and keep it away from flammable gases.
Fiber handling rules
- Work on a dark mat or splice tray that shows fragments; use tweezers, not fingers, to pick up scraps.
- Wear safety glasses with side shields and keep food and drink away.
- Wash hands after handling fiber and before eating.
- Cap unused connectors and treat every fiber as live.
- Use a vacuum or sticky tape to pick up bits; do not sweep.
Field hazards
- Aerial work: poles, strand and bucket trucks, with fall protection and distance from power lines. See Bucket Trucks and Overhead Power Lines.
- Underground: vaults, manholes and handholes with possible gases, water and traffic. See Manholes & Vaults.
- Traffic: use proper work zone setup and high-visibility clothing. See Traffic Control Crews.
- Ladders and weather: use fall protection, avoid working in lightning.
- Digging: call 811 before trenching or boring. See Call 811.
Checklist
- Fiber scraps go into a sealed container
- Safety glasses on, no looking into fibers
- Atmosphere tested before entering a vault
- Traffic control and fall protection in place
- Power lines identified and clearances kept
Standards & references
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