Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

Document Submission Sheet

55002050 Contract No.:
MISK Precinct 4-School Phase 1 Project:
Method statements & Risk Assessment for fiber optic cable pulling Document Title:

MC-PH01-P04-06A03-SAB-MTS-MEC-000046 Document No.:

00 Revision No.:

Revision History

Issue date Revision no. Status Prepared by: Approved by:

Project Director
05/04/2022 00 Issued for approval Technical/CM/QC/HSE
Bassam Al nairb

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Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

SAB Competent Persons: we have reviewed this document for our respective disciplines;

Signatur
Assurance Name Title Date
e
I have reviewed this document for its accuracy and Technical
Prepared by
technical content to meet the MISK requirements Lead/CM
I have reviewed this document for its accuracy and TWC/
Reviewed
technical content to meet the MISK requirements Logistic/
by
Lifting
Reviewed I have reviewed this document for its accuracy and HSE
by technical content to meet the MISK requirements Manager
Reviewed I have reviewed this document for its accuracy and Project
by technical content to meet the MISK requirements Director
Reviewed I have reviewed this document for its accuracy and
QA/QC
by technical content to meet the MISK requirements

Approval from V3 Middle East:

Name Designation Signature Date Remarks

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Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION …………………………………………………………...4

2. PURPOSE.......................................................................................................4

3. SCOPE..............................................................................................................4

4. Communications……………………………………………………………5

5. Control Measures ………………………………………………………….5

6. Project Access and Egress……………………………………………….6

7. Delivery, Handling and Storage Delivery, Handling and Storage…7

8. EQUIPMENT LIST.........................................................................................7

9. WORKING METHOD…...............................................................................7

9.1 FIBER OPTIC CABLE PULLING ………………………………………..7

9.2 FIBER OPTIC CABLE TESTING…...............................................................12

9.3 FOC JOINTING/SPLICING AND GLANDING & TERMINATION..........12

10.QUALITY CONTROL…............................................................................13

11.HSE REQUIREMENTS…..........................................................................13

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1.Introduction
Optical fiber cables for telecommunication application have been installed in pipes/ducts for many years.
The installation process is influenced by local conditions, local climate, customer’s existing procedures, and
customer requirements. There are two basic methods of cable installation in a preinstalled duct – Pulling
method and Blowing method. The cable installation method is selected based on site conditions and
availability of machinery & resources. Table 1 shows a comparison between the two installation methods.

Table 1 Comparison between Pulling and Blowing methods

Pulling Method
Pulling rope pre-installed
Equipment and manpower at two sides
High sidewall forces on cables and ducts may
lead to cable damage
Mainly manual pulling is practiced. Machine
pulling needs one hydraulic power pack
Mainly used for straight duct route
Suitable for short distance (few 100 meters)
installation
Blowing Method
No pulling rope to install
Equipment and manpower at one side
Forces on cable and duct can be
monitored and controlled and minimal
chance of cable damage
Large compressor and/or hydraulic power
pack at one side
Preferred for duct route with multiple bends
and undulations
Preferred for long distance (over 2 km)
installation

Pulling procedure is necessary and unavoidable in certain areas such as the small areas, small patches where
blowing set up is not able to be accommodated. In this application note, cable installation by pulling method
and its best practices are explained.

2. PURPOSE:

The purpose of this Method Statement is to outline the sequences and the method of works
intended to be used for the Fiber Optic Cables Installation, Splicing and Testing. Highlighting the
scope, responsibilities, references, documentation, equipment, safety concerns including the QC
inspection activities involve in the process.

The sub-contractor reserves the right to adapt the methods of execution as contained in this
document from time to time according to the specific site conditions

3.SCOPE:

The Scope of works comprises:

3.1 Fiber Optic Cable handling/transport
3.2 Fiber Optic Cable Laying/Pulling
3.3 Fiber Optic Cable Jointing/Splicing
3.4 Fiber Optic Cable Testing.

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4. Communications

The contents of this method statement shall be explained and demonstrated to all involved personnel based
on specific task allocation. Site Engineer / Supervisor, subcontractors’ signatures shall be taken on the
approved method statement as a matter of record.

Daily (at the start of each shift) the Works Supervisor and HSEO will complete a Pre-works briefing with
ALL labor based on the activities to be complete in the shift (pre-works briefing will be signed by ALL
labor to demonstrate that they have understood the activities and associated controls. They will then
complete a site walk to ensure and verify that all the controls are in place. Both the RAM and Pre-works
briefing will be located on site with the Works Supervisor for reference and review.

5.Control Measures:
• Permissions / Consents: Ensure all permissions and consents have been obtained.
• Logistics: A works logistics drawing will be developed and attached to the RAM clearly identifying the various
HSE items such as, waste area, spill kits, danger zones etc.
• RAMS / Pre-works Briefing: Ensure that the RAM and Pre-works briefing are available with the Works
Supervisor
• Ensure approval of this Method Statement has been obtained.
• Ensure product health and safety / Technical information are available.
• Obtain product safety/Technical information and check Risk Assessment.
• Works Supervisor: will ensure that the area is a restricted zone and that NO Unauthorized persons access the area.
• Works Supervisor / HSEO and Lift Supervisor will check that ALL appropriate PPE is worn correctly
• Prepare any necessary Toolbox talks.
• Establish a designated work area with suitable barriers, signage and vehicle and pedestrian access / segregation.
• Ensure all plant and equipment are third part certified.
• Ensure all operatives have appropriate required certificates/licenses.
• Ensure work area is clearly identified and checked.
• Site briefings will be undertaken to induct all operatives in the detail of this method statement, any specific Risk
Assessments, COSHH Sheets or other assessments will be included in this briefing.
• ALL site Plant will have flashing Yellow Beacons operating at all times when on site.
• Manual Handling will follow the hierarchy of control and the use of mechanical means shall be a priority as far as
reasonably practicable. Individuals lifting shall not exceed 20kg per person
• Working at height:
• External: For works on the roof (fixing, sealing etc. labor will wear safety harnesses and will be attached to the
crane / boom truck by means of Yoyo retractable line.
o Access to the roof will be via access ladder.
• Internal Works: All internal working at height will be complete by means of Podium or access tower scaffold
which will be installed by competent persons and scaff -tagged
• Welfare: welfare arrangements will be available from the site office as the works are adjacent. No sleeping is
allowed
• All staff are issued with personal water bottles and Igloos with cool water will be maintained on site
• First Aid: Suitable first aiders/nurse are available in the site office and as part of the work team

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• Fire: A fire point will be established at the work front with suitable fire extinguishers (water, Dry Powder and as
the site risks identify).
• Environmental: a spill kit will be maintained in the work area for emergency
• Mobile Crane: Ensure lifting plan and lifting team is available prior to any lifting activities.
o A copy of the Lifting Plan will be submitted to the Supervising consultant for information prior to the start of the
activity
o Lift Plan Supervisor will be on site at all times during the lift and will be clearly identified by wearing a White
Hat and Riggers wearing Red Hats Hat
o Approved lift plan, lift PTW, Crane & Lifting accessories certificates and lift team competency certificates will
be available with the crane
o Lift Supervisor will establish and maintain a suitable lift safety zone with appropriate barriers and signage
(insert picture of what good looks like)
o Riggers / slingers when working at height (back of vehicles, high loads will wear safety harness and will be
clipped on to Yoyo attached to the secondary hook on the crane.

6.Project Access and Egress.

The main access road to site is from Riyadh Western Ring Road. The secondary access and egress route to the
location currently in use is Ibn Az Zahrawi Street. Using western ring road accessing to Prince Mashal Ibn Abdul
Aziz road towards Arqah and then accessing to Ibn Az Zahrawi Street and then to project 24.41, 43.8 N, 46.35, 25.7
E.
The main exit from the project sites shall remain the same gates as a main security check point with security management,
traffic management and HSE operatives.

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Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

7. Delivery, Handling and Storage Delivery, Handling and Storage

• Deliver cables properly packaged in factory packed or fabricated containers, wound on factory reels.
• Store cables in dry areas, and protect from weather, fumes, water, debris, etc.
• Handle cable carefully to avoid abrasing, puncturing and tearing cable insulation and sheathing. Ensure that
dielectric resistance integrity of cables is maintained.
• Site Engineers have to ensure that all material used at site are of free from any damages or
deformities of any kind. Units found not suitable for site use will be removed immediately and the same will be
replaced by correct item.

8. EQUIPMENT LIST:

The following list of tools and equipment will be used for the installation of cable supports, PVC
conduits cable installations in duct banks, cable trays, Ladders, Raceways, cable trenches and
cable testing.
8.1 Step Ladders and Scaffoldings
8.2 Manual operated trolleys / pallet truck, slings
8.3 Assorted hand tools and nylon rope
8.4 Rail trolley
8.5 Crane, Hi-up
8.6 Excavator, (by civil group as required)
8.7 Trailer, Cable Trolleys
8.8 Cable Drum Stand and Shaft
8.9 Cable Rollers
8.10 Cable tagger/winch
8.11 Pulling Wire or Rope, bell mouth
8.12 Telephone/Walkie-Talkies
8.13 Cable pulling compound
8.14 FOC DCM Fusion Splicer Machine (type39)
8.15 OTDR
8.16 Source & Power Meter
8.17 Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)
8.18 Cleaning Pads
8.19 Visual Fault Locator (IMM)
8.20 Hand tools

9. WORKING METHOD:

9.1 FIBER OPTIC CABLE PULLING

Pulling Method
Cable installation into a pre-installed underground ducts/pipes by manual pulling or by puller machine is
called as “Pulling Method”. In this method, cable is pulled through duct/pipes with the help of pre-installed
rope inside the duct/pipes.
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Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

Optical fiber Cable pulling in underground horizontal duct routes requires some special considerations.
These considerations are familiar to the installers who are specialize in optical fiber cabling installation,
but may be unknown to the contractor who has dealt primarily with copper cabling. Failing to follow such
a procedure can result in fiber/cable damages or high optical power losses after installation.
Optical fiber cable pulling is generally preferred in access networks where underground ducts/ pipes are
not continuous for more than 200 to 300 meters and cable needs to be stored in coil form at each
manhole/handhole available at every 200 to 300 meters.
If cables are pulled into conduit or inner duct, the ‘Duct Fill Ratio’ to be maintained below 65%. The ratio
between cross sectional area of the cable and inner space of the duct is known as ‘Duct Fill Ratio (DFR)’ or
‘Fill Ratio’.

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d2
DFR =
D2 x100
Where,
d= cable diameter
D= duct inner diameter

Cable Pulling Guidelines and Best Practices

Duct Route Survey
Conduct the duct route survey and inspect the route for manhole, coiling, splicing locations. Ensure there
are no sharp bends or slops that exceed the minimum bend radius of the cable (refer cable supplier
specification sheet). Identify and attain the potential problems during route survey. Identify the cable reel
location/pulling location. Ensure the duct continuity is thorough and clear for the pulling length patch.

Pulling Rope
Ensure cable pulling rope is available in the duct. If pulling rope is not available inside the ducts then first
install the pulling rope with the help of rodder as shown in Figure1. Push the rodder rod through one end of
the duct/pipe and as the rodder rod reaches to other end of the duct/pipe, tie the pulling rope with the rodder
rod at other end and reel back the rodder rod.

Figure 1 Pulling rope installation by rodder

Cable Pulling Grip

Cable pulling grip shall be fixed at the head of the cable as shown in below figure 2. The function of this
grip is to provide effective grip over cable sheath which is very useful during cable pulling. A wrap of
plastic tape shall be wrapped around the grip which has been pulled tight over the cable.

Figure 2 Wire mesh cable pulling grip

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Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

Breakaway Swivel
It is strongly recommended to use breakaway swivel during manual pulling installation where pulling
tension is not controlled. During manual pulling, applied pulling tension higher than the cable tensile rating
can damage the cable and negatively impact its lifetime. Breakaway swivels are available with different
tensile rating and can be placed in between cable and pulling rope. The main function of breakaway swivel
is to break the swivel device if excess tension applied during cable pulling. For example, if cable rated
tensile is 2700N and breakaway swivel having 2500N tensile strength is fixed, when the cable pulling
tension goes above 2500N , the swivel will break so that excess pulling tension will not have any impact on
cable.

Swivel Cable Pulling Grip

Pulling Rope

Figure 3 Swivel
Cable reel
pay-off
This feature is very important in optical fiber cable installation set-up to ensure cable is smoothly reel off.
It is always recommended to use cable reel pay off during cable installation. The cable reel should be kept
in level to avoid cable rubbing against the reel flanges. The cable reel orientation should be such that the
natural payoff direction is towards the pulling direction. To eliminate possible cable contact with the
ground, cable payout should be from the top of the reel. Figure 4 shows a cable reel in a cable reel pay-off
and figure 5 shows the do’s and don’ts of cable unwinding.

Figure 4 Figure 5
Figure 4 Cable reel pay-off Figure 5

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Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

Cable Handling
All optical fiber cables are sensitive to damage during shipping, handling, and installation. Some of the
important parameters that need special attention during cable pulling installation are:

Cable bending radius: Optical fiber cables are designed with a minimum bending radius. The
cable should never be bent below its minimum bending radius. Doing so can result in bending
losses and/or fiber breaks in the cable. Generally the minimum bending radius of a fiber cable
under load is 20×D, where D is the diameter of cable.

Figure 6

 Cable Pulling Tension: Optical fiber cables are designed with a maximum tensile strength. The
cable should never be pulled beyond its maximum tensile strength. Exceeding the cable’s pulling
tension provided by Sterlite in the Cable Data Sheet / Specification, can alter cable and fiber
performance and shorten its in-service lifetime.


Cable Twist: Cable twist can develop stress on the fibers and therefore need to be avoided. Tension on
the cable and pulling ropes can cause cable twisting. Use a swivel pulling eye to connect the pulling
rope to the cable prevents pulling tension causing twisting forces on the cable as shown in figure 3.
Unroll the cable off the reel loaded on pay-off or reel jack instead of manually taking out as shown in
figure 4. When reel-off the cable for pulling, stored in “figure-8” shape on the ground to prevent
twisting. The figure 8 puts a half twist in one side of ‘8’ and takes it out on the other side to prevent
generation of twists in cable.

Figure 7 Cable stored in ‘fig-8’ shape

Cable Lubricants
Use of cable lubricants to reduce co-efficient of friction between cable outer surface and duct inner
surface is recommended to pull cable in a duct route having multiple bends, elevation and undulations.
The lubricant material should not react with cable outer sheath (don’t use soap water, kerosene, diesel).
Apply right quantity of lubricant as suggested by the supplier.

For additional information refer Sterlite application note titled “Underground Installation of Optic Fiber

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Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

Cable Placing”(issue- November’ 2014).

9.2 FIBER OPTIC CABLE TESTING

9.2.1All Fiber Optic cable types shall be subjected to Optical Time Domain Reflectometer
(OTDR) Tests upon the receipt of each Cable Drum at the Storage Area prior to dispatch
to site for installation. Visually check FOC drum for any dent.
9.2.2 Obtain IFC Drawings, NOC’s, Materials Approval and appropriate PTW as required.
9.2.3 PTW receiver shall be on site thru out the duration of the activity.

9.2.4 The concerned parties those who will witness the test shall be notified through RFI.
9.2.5 The surroundings of the testing area shall be cordoned off and the access shall be
restricted to the authorized personnel only. Safety warning sign boards shall be provided.
9.2.6 Ensure that the test equipment shall be made available on the test area, with a valid
calibration stickers and certificates.
9.2.7 Ensure that all cable type, size and cable number conforms to the specifications and
drawings.
9.2.8 Cables shall be checked for proper supports, labeling, ferruling, loose cable glanding and
provisions of shroud (as required). All Tests shall be as per Project Specifications.
9.2.9 All duly filled in formats with test results shall be submitted to the concerned authorities
for approval.

9.3 FOC JOINTING/SPLICING AND GLANDING & TERMINATION

9.3.1 Obtain IFC drawings, NOC’s, material approval as required.

9.3.2 Apply for necessary permits from authorities on FOC fusion splicing
9.3.3 Ensure that cable glands, Fiber Optic cable jointing/splicing and termination Kit are
appropriate for the cables and equipment’s as per COMPANY specification.
9.3.4 All jointing/splicing/termination shall be carried out by duly certified technicians.
(Suitable & well-ventilated work place should be provided for every fiber optic cable joint
/ splicing
9.3.5 Phasing and continuity verification shall be carried out prior to commencement of splicing
works.
9.3.6 Jointing / Splicing / Termination shall be carried out as per manufacturer’s
specification or recommendation.
9.3.7 Suitable cable supports and cleating and anchoring shall be utilized.
9.3.8 Install cable markers with suitable cable ties.
9.3.9 Only appropriate approved joint kit / termination kit shall be used. Any joints shall be
made as per manufacturer’s recommendations by using the manufacturer’s
jointing/termination kit and accessories. (please see attachment 3).
9.3.10 A spare length of cable shall be provided on both sides of the cable prior to cable jointing.
9.3.11 After jointing, seek approval from COMPANY via RFI.

10. QUALITY CONTROL:

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Project : MISK Precinct 4 School Campus Phase 1

10.1 Contractor shall perform the inspection required to verify conformance and shall prepare and
maintain the records of inspections done and approved.
10.2 Items for inspection.
10.3 Project Title.
10.4 Vendor’s/Contractor’s Name.
10.5 Type of Observation.
10.6 No. of reference specification or drawing.
10.7 Date of Inspection.
10.8 Name of inspector or operator.
10.9 Name of witness inspectors of the COMPANY and CONTRATOR.
10.10 Register number of measuring and test equipment or a data recorder used in validated
calibration date.
10.11 Acceptance criteria.
10.12 Results of acceptability.
10.13 Reference to information or action taken in connection with non-conformance.
10.14 Name of person evaluating results.
10.15 Contractor shall evaluate the inspection results against acceptance criteria to verify
conformance of an item to the specific requirements, duly signed and date on the records for
acceptable item. For items with comments, the Contractor shall rectify and raise a Request for
Inspection on the rectified comments.
10.16 All QC Inspection shall be based on the approved Contractor - ITP no. (Inspection and
Test Plan for Instrumentation Work).

11. HSE REQUIREMENTS:

1.1 All Installation, Testing and Inspection work shall be undertaken in accordance with Site Safety
Rules, regulations and approved procedures.
1.2 Work permits will be obtained prior to any work being carried out and work will
commence in accordance with specific measures as indicated in the work permit.
1.3 All necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided and be worn
according to the site safety requirements.
1.4 Site working area will be kept in a clean and tidy manner after any work have been done.
1.5 Daily Tool Box Meeting should be established at site, detailing potential hazards
associated with the work, and implement necessary action, thereby minimizing or
eliminate hazard exposure to workers.

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 Risk Assessment:

 This approved RAMS and associated documents, will be located with the Works Supervisor for reference as required.
 The works Supervisor and HSEO will complete daily Pre-Start Briefings based on the approved RAMS.
 If the risk has changed and does not reflect the approved RAM.
 The Works Supervisor is to discuss with HSE to review and update gain advanced approval before resubmission.

1. Safe System Is the proposed method acceptable? Yes / No

Are there any PTW / Clearances required? (if yes obtained)? Yes / No
2. Safety and Are barriers / signs needed for the work area? Yes / No
Security
Does utilities / fire systems need isolating? Yes / No
3. Safety What PPE / safety equipment is required? (Circle relevant boxes)
Equipment Safety Footwear Safety Helmet Hi-Visibility Vests Gloves
Eye Protection Hearing Protection Dust/COVID Masks
Other (state)
4. Plant and List ALL items of Plant and Equipment being used:
Equipment

Confirm that the Works Supervisor and HSEO will check daily as part of the Pre- Yes / No
Works Briefing;
 Plant & Tools for suitability
 All Plant has got 3rd Party inspection (e.g., by TUV)
 Confirm ALL competencies are suitable for the Plant & Tools
5. Excavations Have all PTW / Clearances been obtained. Have all services been marked? Are all Yes / No N/A
shoring material on site before starting works?
6. Working at Which is the most appropriate for access (circle as required)
Height Podium Access Tower MEWP Scaffolding Rope / Harness Access
Note: Ladders are for access only. Step Ladders only where one of the above can’t be used and supported
by a specific risk assessment
If MEWP - Confirm operators are trained Yes / No N/A
If scaffolding / access tower – Confirm they will be erected by competent persons Yes / No N/A
and a scaff-tag system used?
If Rope or safety harness – confirm you have an approved safe system of work Yes / No N/A
7. Manual Can heave / awkward items be moved and stacked securely? Yes / No N/A
Handling If lifting apparatus required? Yes / No
8.Housekeeping Are materials in safe areas and stacked securely? Yes / No N/A
Are materials segregated from other people / members of the public? Yes / No N/A
9. Environment Are there facilities for the disposal of materials? Yes / No N/A
Are there any risks to local ecology / archeology? Yes / No N/A
Has consideration been given to prevention of nuisance dust/noise to neighbors Yes / No N/A
10. Welfare / Are suitable first aid and welfare facilities available at the work-area? Yes / No
First Aid

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