Communication Protective Devices & Conductor Location

OSHA outlines requirements for communication protective devices and conductor locations within tunnels.

Protective Devices

Communication circuits located where there is a chance of accidental contact with light or power conductors operating at over 300 volts must have an approved protector for each exposed circuit. Each conductor of a lead-in from an outdoor antenna must have an antenna discharge unit or other means to drain static charges from the antenna system.

Conductor Location

Receiving distribution lead-in or aerial-drop cables attached to building and lead-in conductors to radio transmitters must be installed to avoid the possibility of accidental contact with electric light or power conductors. The clearance between lead-in conductors and lightning protection conductors cannot be less than six feet. Where practical, on poles, communication conductors must be located below the light or power conductor. They cannot be attached to a cross-arm that carries light or power conductors. Indoor antennas, lead-ins, and other communication conductors attached as open conductors to the inside of buildings must be located at least two inches from conductors of any light or power or Class 1 circuits unless a special, effective method of conductor separation is used.

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