When it comes to utility construction and prepping utility poles for attachments, make-ready design plays a key role in ensuring that safety and efficiency are both maintained. But what exactly is make-ready design and why is it so important?
Make-ready design is critical to the success of fiber network expansion projects. In this post, we will explain how it helps ensure safe, continuous operations of existing components on electrical poles. We will also discuss the federal guidelines used to oversee this process. For experienced make-ready design services, contact our team to discuss your project needs today.
What is Make-Ready Design for Utility Construction?
Utility construction companies play a critical role in the expansion of fiber offerings to new areas. To prepare for the installation of new fiber attachments on utility poles, the make-ready design process must be completed. Make-ready design refers to the necessary prepping of utility poles to receive new attachments. This process is essential for ensuring that the new infrastructure will be stable and will function correctly.
However, the make-ready design process is not a simple job. It requires careful planning, design, and collaboration between construction companies and service providers. The goal of this planning stage is to ensure that any existing components on the pole are safe and can remain in place.
When done properly, make-ready design ensures that any existing components on the pole are safe and secure before new attachments can be installed. It also helps to minimize the possibility of accidents or injury during the installation process.
Who is Involved in This Type of Project?
In most communities, utility poles are owned by either the local government, electric company, telephone company, or are jointly owned by a combination of these agencies. It is estimated that there are around 170 million wood utility poles currently in service across the US. If a communications provider wants to add something new to those poles, such as fiber-optic cable, cooperation with the owner is crucial.
Make-ready design for utility construction generally involves:
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- Electrical engineers who provide the technical resources and expertise to complete the project.
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- Designers who create plans for how the new infrastructure should be installed.
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- Utility pole owners, who are responsible for maintaining their property and giving permission for any attachments or alterations.
Federal guidelines stipulate that owners must respond to requests for new pole attachments within 148 days if there are under 300 poles involved. If there are more than 300 poles to be updated, the owners have additional time to consider the installation request.
Are There Federal Regulations Around Make-Ready Design?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) sets rules and regulations that must be followed for any new utility construction or modification to an existing pole. These regulations are set in place to ensure the safety of any construction workers or technicians who may be working on these projects as well as anyone using the attachments on the pole afterwards.
The FCC also outlines the types of attachments that are allowed on electrical poles. If any of these regulations are violated, the FCC may impose fines or other penalties on the responsible parties.
Experienced, Knowledgeable Services for Utility Construction
Experienced consultation and engineering services can help save time and money. Our team is dedicated to delivering quality results quickly and efficiently, while ensuring cost-effectiveness to meet any budget requirements. At TechServ, we understand the importance of make-ready design in utility construction projects and provide exceptional service for our clients. Contact us now to discuss your project requirements.