Keeping Pace with the World

Friday, April 29, 2011

Abandoned Cable: A Serious Problem

Removing cable from a building that is neither currently in use nor planned for future use is more than an NEC Code--it is a major safety issue. Plenum rated cabling will start burning in under 45 seconds--releasing toxins that can incapacitate, blind, and even kill people.

Until 2002, leaving unused cabling behind was common practice. Over the years prior, the load of abandoned cable in commercial buildings reached a critical mass--becoming a serious fire and noxious fumes threat.

For that reason, the National Electric Code (NEC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) changed codes to require that abandoned copper and fiber cable be removed from concealed spaces.

New Codes Mean Increased Liabilities

Since the adoption of the new codes, case law has dramatically increased liability for businesses and in some cases, even individuals. If a fire occurs in a building containing abandoned cable, the person and/or company who made the decision not to remove it could be ruled negligent. Bottom line? Even if you hired a contractor to do the work, if cable is left behind, you risk your employees' safety as well as your check book.

What Will Your Contractor Do?

Since the practice of "abandoning" cable was in place for so long, many contractors still don't bother to remove it. When you hire a cabling company, for the safety of your building and occupants--ask them what they plan to do with the unused cable. If they are unaware of the codes, ask them to reference one of the codes we've provided.

Abandoned Cable Codes

The following codes address the removal of abandoned cable in buildings:

• 2002 NEC
• 2005 NEC
• 2002 NFPA 75: Standard for the protection of Electronic Computer/Data Processing Equipment
• 2002 NFPA 76: Recommended Practice for the Fire Protection of Telecommunications Facilities
• 2002 NFPA 90A: Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems

 

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