Training Gallery

Abandoned Cable Removal

   

Identification

abandoned cable imageThe only way to truly identify wiring that is not being used within a building is to conduct a comprehensive wiring survey and audit. This survey and audit will identify the extent of the problem and the level of effort that will be required to correct it.

The process should start with a survey of all telecommunications and computer equipment closets. The inspector should tag as abandoned all cable that will not be reused in the near future.

The next step is to examine cabling that is installed in building raceways and risers. Finally the inspector should take a look at cabling that is installed above drop ceilings and below raised floors. To summarize:

  • Identify abandoned cables per 2002 NEC requirements. Onsite identification and tagging of abandoned riser cabling, hardware and equipment by field technician

  • Tag, Inventory and Document existing and abandoned cable and equipment in riser and telecommunication rooms and plenum areas, Telephone and Data circuits, telecom and network equipment

  • Onsite assessment of property’s telecommunications infrastructure and development potential

  • Inspection and inventory of existing telecommunications infrastructure and pathways

  • Make recommendations

When the survey is complete, all cabling within the facility should fall into one of three categories:

  • In use
  • Tagged For Future Use
  • Abandoned
 

Back to top
   
   

Removal and Disposal

abandoned cable imageThe change in the 2002 National Electrical Code (NEC) requires removal of abandoned cable to reduce the fuel load and eliminate toxic fumes in case of a fire. The abandoned cables in the plenum areas above the ceiling is generally chaotic with many different types of cables tangled like a rats nest, and many offices have so much buildup that the ceiling tiles cannot be lifted. Few companies have bothered to pull out old cabling to avoid disruptions to their network operations and without damaging existing cabling. The buildup of old cabling has become a major safety concern over the last ten years. The 2002 Code requires that abandoned cable be removed from plenum and riser areas.

The best and easiest time to remove abandoned cables is during the addition of new cabling systems or during renovation projects. Removing abandoned cable at these times minimizes the disruption of building occupants, while helping free up capacity for newly installed cables. With NEC enforcement on the rise, failing to remove abandoned cable during a renovation could trigger an enforcement action which could delay everything.

The NEC does not address the issue of when abandoned cable must be removed. Most end-users initiate removal projects when new cabling systems are added or when a major renovation is being done. Timing is up to each individual jurisdiction.

Another issue not addressed by the NEC is how removed abandoned cable should be disposed. Local code and statutory requirements come into play. Some states do not allow disposal of these cables in landfills. While the copper in cable is often recovered and recycled, the major problem is the large amount of plastic material used for insulation and jacketing. This problem has not been addressed. Insulation and cable jackets can be recycled. Burning was once an accepted method of removing insulation and cable jackets, but don’t try that today you will be in violation of NEC regulations.

According to estimates there is more than forty-five billion feet of plenum cable in place in buildings. The NEC requires that all abandoned copper and fiber cable be removed.
 

Back to top