NBN Cabling Installation on Private Poles

Overview

This case study details a challenging NBN cable installation in Ashbury, where a private pole presented unique safety and logistical challenges. The task involved setting up an overhead HFC (Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial) cable between a private pole and a street pole, which NBN contractors typically avoid due to occupational health and safety (OHS) issues related to climbing private poles. Secure A Com was called in to handle this complex installation, ensuring the site was ready for the NBN contractor to complete their part of the job.

The Challenge

The main challenge was to install the overhead NBN cable on a private pole that was deemed unsafe for climbing by the NBN technician. The pole had no visible safety markings indicating it was unsuitable for climbing, but it required careful inspection and preparation. The specific tasks included:

• Securing the cable attachment point 600mm below the power line on the pole.
• Sourcing hard-to-find installation materials like HFC cables, pole hooks, stainless steel strapping, and ratchets.
• Navigating obstacles such as overgrown trees around the poles.
• Preparing the cable installation in a way that would make the NBN contractor’s work easier and faster, minimising downtime for the customer.

The Solution

Securing the Materials

One of the initial hurdles was finding the correct materials, as many components were outdated or not readily available. Jason, the head tech from Secure A Com, managed to source the necessary parts by working closely with suppliers, including Middy’s in Sydney. This process alone took several days due to the rarity of these items in the market.

Installation Process

1. Inspection and Preparation: The private pole was inspected to ensure it was safe enough to support the installation equipment. Once confirmed, the hook and strapping were prepared and positioned 600mm below the power line.
2. Setting Up the Pole Hook: A stainless steel strap was threaded through a pole hook, secured tightly using a ratchet. The hook was oriented towards the pole to ensure stability during cable tensioning.
3. Cable Management: A new HFC cable was mounted on a cable roller for easy deployment. The cable, equipped with an RJ6 quad shield and a tension strand, was lashed onto sashes to handle the tension between the poles, ensuring the actual HFC cable would not bear the weight.
4. Running the Cable: The cable was pulled through the prepared path and hooked securely. To further simplify the job for the NBN contractors, Jason routed the cable down into the street pit, ensuring it was ready for final termination.
5. Finishing Touches: Care was taken to clean up the work area, removing any debris or discarded materials to maintain a safe and tidy environment, avoiding potential complaints from residents.

Outcome

Secure A Com successfully completed the installation, overcoming multiple obstacles, from sourcing hard-to-find materials to executing a complex cabling job on an unconventional setup. The work prepared the site thoroughly for the NBN contractors, who only needed to complete the final terminations. By managing this project effectively, Secure A Com demonstrated the value of detailed planning, specialised skills, and the importance of going the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.

Key Takeaways

• Expertise in Handling Private Poles: Secure A Com’s knowledge and experience enabled them to safely work on private poles that NBN contractors avoid due to safety concerns.
• Resourcefulness: Even with difficult-to-source materials, persistence and strong supplier relationships allowed for the completion of the project.
• Customer-Centric Approach: By preparing the installation meticulously, Secure A Com minimised the workload for NBN contractors, ensuring a smoother and quicker service for the customer.

Secure A Com provides reliable and professional internet service solutions, specialising in complex installations and troubleshooting NBN issues. If you need assistance with your NBN setup, cabling, or repairs, contact Secure A Com today.

More Of Our Case Studies