When installing underground fiber optic cables, it is important to take a number of steps to ensure a safe work environment. Here are 10 tips that will help you protect your workers, the public, and yourself.

How to create a safe working environment? 

Creating a safe working environment is paramount when installing underground fibre optic cables. Here is a summary of 10 tips:

1. Carry out a thorough risk assessment: Identify and reduce foreseeable risks, taking into account factors such as traffic, pedestrian traffic, nearby structures and other potential hazards.
2. Use clear signs: Use visible and easily understood signs to inform the public of works and potential hazards, such as underground cables, diversions and speed limits.
3. Use of barriers and fencing: Create a physical barrier between the work area and the public using temporary fencing, barriers and blockades.
4. Instructing workers: Ensure workers receive the necessary training, including NRSWA training, so they can work safely and identify/report potential hazards.
5. Site monitoring: Regularly inspect the work area, monitor traffic and conduct safety audits to identify and remove potential hazards.
6. Provide welfare facilities: Ensure proper signage, security and lighting at local storage/work areas, including proper waste disposal.
7. Establish site rules: Implement site rules and safety areas with appropriate signage, security and lighting.
8. Visitor management: Use a visitor register to record all visitors to the site and ensure they have received an introduction.
9. Provide access to authorised persons: Allow access to the site, warehouse or grounds only to people who have undergone an introduction.
10. Restricting access to outsiders: Prevent members of the public from entering the site to ensure safety.