Current at: 11 September 2008
Working near Telstra underground cables (Nat)
Do you every forget to check what might be underground before you start work? Do you know how to find out what’s in the ground and who owns it? This information sheet explains who to talk to and what to look out for in relation to telephone cabling.
Prior to any site works taking place it’s a good idea to obtain a plan of Telstra’s underground network to make sure you don’t accidentally damage any underground cabling near or on your work site. The location of underground cables can usually be easily sourced via the website
Dial Before You Dig
or by calling them directly on 1100.
Once you know what you’ve got, you then need to know the restrictions on working near telephone cables.
Working Distances
Telstra require following minimum distances to be maintained at all times during any construction activity. However where these distances cannot be maintained the person responsible would need to contact Network Integrity Help Desk on 1800 653 935 (7.00am - 7.00pm EST) and discuss alternative protection options.
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Jackhammers / pneumatic breakers
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Not within 1.0m of actual location
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Vibrating plate of Wacker Packer compactor
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Not within 0.5m of Telstra ducts. 300mm compact clearance cover before compactor can be used across Telstra ducts
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Boring equipment (in-line, horizontal and vertical)
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Not within 2.0m of actual location. Constructors to hand dig (pothole) and expose plant
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Heavy vehicle traffic (over 3 tonnes)
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Not to be driven across Telstra ducts (or plant) with less than 600mm cover. Constructor to check depth via hand digging.
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Mechanical Excavators, Boring and Tree Removal
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Not within 1.0m of actual location. Constructor to hand dig (pothole) and expose plant
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Minimum Cover
Once the construction works are completed, Telstra require conduit to have a minimum cover depth depending on the location.
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Footway
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Minimum 450mm
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Roadway
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Minimum
450mm
at drain invert and
600mm
at road centre crown
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For further information HIA members can contact HIA’s Building Services staff on 1300 650 620 or hia_technical@hia.com.au.
If you would like to become a HIA member, contact 1300 650 620 or enquiry@hia.com.au
Ref No. NAT 08-
The above is intended to provide general information in summary form. The contents do not constitute specific advice and should not be relied upon as such. Formal specific advice should be sought by members with respect to particular matters before taking action. ABN 99 004 631 752