This practice is intended to assist optical fiber cable owners and pipeline operators in developing operating and maintenance procedures and practices for the secondary use of gas pipelines as conduits for optical fiber cables. It must be kept in mind that the primary use of gas pipelines is for transportation of natural gas and any secondary use of the system must not materially impact the primary function. It is the responsibility of the optical fiber cable owner and pipeline operator to decide how best to integrate operating and maintenance procedures for the pipeline, the optical fiber system, and the optical fiber cable so that safety is not compromised, customers are served in the best way possible, and incremental costs are minimized.

Since the practice of integrating gas pipeline facilities and fiber optics for telecommunications purposes is a new and emerging activity, this standard will help establish guidelines for its rapid and safe deployment and will ensure that the facilities installed are maintained to operate on a long-term basis.

1.1 This practice covers the operation and maintenance of natural gas distribution and service pipelines containing optical fiber cable and the operation and maintenance of the optical fiber system.

1.2 This practice applies to distribution and service lines used to transport natural gas.

1.3 This practice does not apply to natural gas transmission lines.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.