NECA and BICSI unveil new telecommunications standard

Dec 19, 2001 12:00 PM

Recently published by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), Bethesda, Md., and BICSI, Tampa, Fla., the new ANSI/NECA/BICSI 568-2001, Installing Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling, is the first standard to address the importance of proper installation of telecommunications premises systems, including cabling and the associated pathways and spaces. The standard covers five major components: support systems, pulling cable, firestopping, cable terminations, and installation verification. Tables and figures include conduit bend radius, separation distances, suspended cable tray, fire seal of drywall, wiring schemes, and more.

In 1998, NECA asked BICSI to jointly undertake the development of a telecommunications installation standard. Developed by members of the BICSI/NECA joint committee, this standard is unique in that it is based on BICSI's “Telecommunications Cabling Installation Manual,” an 800-page guide of specific tasks for cabling installers.

"This document not only covers the installation and safety requirements for telecommunications cabling, it focuses on criteria that aid in delivering performance levels expected by end-users," said Jay Warmke, BICSI executive director. "It will be an extremely valuable tool for the construction industry, including architects and engineers, and especially the installers of the telecommunications cabling."

You can purchase the standard for $25 by calling NECA at (301) 215-4504 or visiting www.necanet.org.