For areas such as sidewalks, backyards, and alleys where only foot traffic is anticipated, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) generally requires a minimum vertical clearance of 9. 5 to 10 feet above the ground. The Fiber Optic Association, Inc. (FOA) was founded in 1995 to help develop the workforce to build the fiber optic networks to support a rapid expansion in communications and the Internet. The charter of the FOA was to promote professionalism in fiber optics through education, certification, and. Deploying fiber above ground on poles or towers removes the need for underground digging and is particularly useful when the ground is uneven, rocky or both. Establishing minimum height requirements prevents unintentional snagging by tall equipment or vehicles and reduces the risk of injury to individuals carrying long. 4. FO-VC2 JOINT USE - VERICAL MIDSPAN CLEARANCES 48. FO-RI JOINT USE RISER. Deployment of fiber cable can be either buried, or placed above ground (aerial) on poles. The choice between buried and aerial installation is dependent on a number of factors including cost, speed to market, ground conditions, and infrastructure availability.
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