The “Digital Age” is reliant on speedy access to data, and lots of it. A key part of the infrastructure network needed to transfer this information is via optical fibre cables.
These cables use light pulses generated by lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to transfer data that support telecommunications, the internet and cable television.
The cables are formed of a glass core and have distinct advantages over traditional copper wiring. They have a considerably wider bandwidth, their smaller diameter allows more fibres to be fitted in each cable diameter, and there is no interference between the glass-stranded fibres located in the same cable.
Thus, fibre optic cables provide not only a higher quantity of information transfer but also retained high quality.
On the downside, fibre optic cables are much more fragile and need to be protected from accidental damage. Figuring out how to work with fibre cables is essential for preventing damage to equipment and yourself.
How to Stay Safe When Handing Fibre Optic Cables
Hazards associated with handling fibre optic cables tend to differ from traditional wiring in some respects but also have many common inherent dangers due to their location. Fibre optic installation standards differ from ordinary cables, so certain risk factors need to be considered.
Heat - Since no electricity or heat is associated with fibre optics, there is no risk of direct electrocution or burns. However, there may be an indirect risk from both as optic fibres are housed in shared facilities with other conductors.
Access - Many of the cables are accessed via manholes and, as confined spaces run the risk of explosive atmospheres, dangers of asphyxiation, and injuries from contact with live equipment, these dangers are associated with handling fibre optic cables.
There are fire risks if an electric arc is used, particularly if flammable gases exist.
Others are located on poles, where risks can arise from live overhead conductors and from falling from heights.
- Infrared Light - Fibre optic cables can cause damage to eyes from infrared light, particularly if inspected using lenses or microscopes. The danger level is increased further if Class 11 lasers are in operation.
- Handling - Managing fibre optic cables can result in skin injury from glass shards, and the risk increases if these are ingested, which can lead to serious internal organ damage. There is also a small risk of fibre optic shards catching in the skin of your hands. So, make sure to always use appropriate PPE such as gloves, masks, and goggles.
Remember, poor disposal of glass fragment waste could endanger other handlers of the waste.
Other things to consider include:
- Fibre optic cables should be checked with a power meter to establish if they are operational.
- There should be a ban on food and drink in operational areas.
- Disposal regimes need to be followed rigidly.
Fibre Optic Broadband Health Risks
As with many new technologies, there is some fear and questions among some about whether it is safe to use.
Fibre broadband, a common use of fibre optic cables, does not emit an electromagnetic field (EMF) as it transmits light signals. Therefore, it is different to other wireless technologies which use radiofrequency radiation to transmit data.
Can Fibre Optic Cable Cause Cancer?
There is no scientific evidence that suggests handling or being near fibre optic cable causes cancer.
Can Fibre Optic Cable Kill You?
This is extremely unlikely, even more so when the correct safety precautions are taken.
- Fibre optic cable doesn’t carry electricity, so it cannot electrocute you.
- Its infrared wavelength cannot penetrate your eyes.
- Optical fibre is not classified as a dangerous substance, so it will not poison you (however, we would still strongly advise against ingestion).
- And, as stated above, there is no known link to cancer.
Stay Safe With Help From Label Source
Label Source has a range of products to identify and locate fibre cable products, including underground warning and detectable tapes, hazard warning labels, and signs (particularly for laser hazards), and cable identifiers. Take a look online, today.
