|  | 9.4 | Structured Cable Run Installation
| 9.4.4 | Personal safety precautions before installing cable

SAFETY RULES

1. Whenever you work in walls, ceilings, or attics, the first thing you should do is turn off power to all circuits that might pass through those work areas! If you are not sure whether, or which, wires pass through the section of the building in which you are working, a good rule to follow is to shut off all power. Never, ever, touch power cables! Even if you think you have cut all power to the area where you will be working, There is no way to know if they are "live".
2. Before you begin work, learn the locations of all fire extinguishers in the area.
3. Wear appropriate clothing. Long pants and sleeves help protect your arms and legs. Avoid wearing excessively loose or baggy clothing. If it is catches on something, you could be injured.
4. If you anticipate working in a dropped ceiling area, survey the area. You can do this by lifting a few of the ceiling tiles and looking around. This will help you locate electrical conduit, air ducts, mechanical equipment, and anything that might possibly cause problems later.
5. If you need to cut or saw, protect your eyes with safety glasses. It's also a good idea to wear safety glasses when you work in a crawl space or above a dropped ceiling. If something falls from above, or if you lean into anything in the dark, your eyes will be protected.
6. Consult the building's maintenance engineer to find out if it there is asbestos, lead, or PCB where you will be working. If so, follow all government regulations in dealing with that material.
7. Keep your work area orderly and neat. Do not leave tools lying in places where someone might trip over them. Use caution with tools that have long extension cords. Like tools, they are easy to trip over.

| Web Links
| Cabling Glossary
| Cable Termination and Installation