PIA S8 Overhead Install

The PIA (Physical Infrastructure Access) S8 Overhead Install course is a specialised training program designed for engineers and contractors who aim to proficiently and safely install drop cables within Openreach's overhead infrastructure. This accreditation ensures that installations comply with the stringent network quality standards associated with PIA and Communication Provider (CP) cable deployment.

What can I expect from the PIA S8 Overhead Install training course?

Learners can anticipate a comprehensive blend of theoretical instruction and practical application over the course duration. Key components include:

• Engineering Techniques: Detailed training on methodologies for deploying drop cables up to a maximum diameter of 7mm within Openreach's overhead network.
• Quality Standards: An in-depth understanding of the network quality standards pertinent to PIA and CP cable deployment, ensuring that installations meet the required specifications.
• Safety Protocols: Emphasis on adhering to safety protocols to ensure the well-being of personnel and the integrity of the infrastructure during installation processes.
• Practical Application: Hands-on experience in a controlled environment, allowing participants to apply learned techniques in real-world scenarios under expert supervision.

Learners are required to meet the following prerequisites before enrolling in the PIA S8 Overhead Install course:

Mandatory Certifications:

• SA001 Overhead Safety: Demonstrates the learner's understanding of overhead safety protocols, ensuring they are equipped to operate safely within aerial environments.
• NRSWA Street Works Qualification – Unit 01: Covers the basics of signing, lighting, and guarding for street works, ensuring that learners can manage and maintain safety standards during street-based operations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Candidates must come equipped with the following PPE to ensure safety during the training:

• High-Visibility (Hi-Vis) Clothing: To ensure visibility in various working environments.
• Safety Boots (with defined heel): Protective footwear to safeguard against potential hazards.
• Safety Helmet (with 4-point chin strap): To protect the head from potential impacts, with the chin strap ensuring the helmet remains securely in place.
• Gloves: To protect hands from abrasions, cuts, and other potential injuries.
• Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles to shield the eyes from debris and other hazards.

Desirable PPE:

• Harness: Provides fall protection when working at heights.
• Working Belt: Assists in carrying tools and equipment securely.
• Lanyard: Used in conjunction with the harness for fall arrest purposes.

Note: Failure to bring the required PPE may result in exclusion from the course, with associated charges still applicable. 

The assessment process is designed to evaluate both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills of the learners:

• Theoretical Assessment: Learners will complete a written test comprising a series of questions that assess their understanding of drop cable installation practices, safety protocols, and quality standards.
• Practical Assessment: Learners will undertake a 'live' installation task within a simulated environment. This hands-on assessment evaluates their ability to apply learned techniques, adhere to safety protocols, and meet the established quality standards during actual installation scenarios. 

Upon successful completion of both the theoretical and practical assessments, learners will be awarded an Openreach-approved certificate detailing S8 PIA Overhead Cable Installation. This certification serves as formal recognition of the individual's competency in drop cable installation within Openreach's overhead infrastructure, enhancing their professional credentials and expanding their career opportunities in the telecommunications sector.