Builder’s guide

to telecommunications
infrastructure and installation
Issue Number 4
 Welcome to Openreach
Openreach was launched in January 2006 to provide installation and
maintenance services on behalf of Communications Providers. We are
responsible for the ‘first mile’ of the national access network – where millions
Contents of calls, web searches and business deals are started each day.

3 Welcome to Openreach Our 25,000 Openreach engineers support and maintain the wiring, fibres and
4 How to contact your nearest newSites office connections which link millions of homes and businesses in Great Britain to the
6 Make the Openreach newSites office your first port of call networks of Communications Providers. Over the course of a year, they make
8 The Openreach policy for the supply of telephony services 3.5 million customer visits across the length and breadth of the country.
on new developments
9 Alterations to the Openreach network As part of Openreach, the newSites operation is committed to ensuring all
10 Avoiding damage to the Openreach underground network Communications Providers have transparent and equivalent access to the
11 Miscellaneous charges and how they apply local network.
12 Making the infrastructure work for you
14 Arrangement of carriageway roadcrossings The Openreach mission
15 Arrangement of mains services
16 Pre-formed chamber system Openreach seeks to be the connectivity partner of choice for Communications
17 Non-standard frames and covers Providers, connecting their customers’ premises to telecommunications
18 Jointing chamber construction JBF 104/106 networks via fixed-line local access and backhaul connections.
20 Specifications for Carriageway Chamber Underpinning this is a commitment to treat all our customers in the same way
22 New External Termination Point (NTE) and develop our network to support their businesses.
24 Entry into flats and business properties
26 Openreach standard wiring guide We are dedicated to:
29 Broadband provision Ensuring equal access to the services and assets associated with the local loop
30 Diverse routing and the copper wires that run between telephone exchanges and end users
30 Blown fibre tubing Providing our customers with all the benefits of our network experience and
31 Wayleaves expertise while being independent and accessible to all
31 Lightning protection Accelerating the broadband revolution while improving service and reliability
32 The Openreach payments process Reinventing the infrastructure to support the continuing success of the UK
34 newSites stores list telecommunications industry
37 newSites stores order form
Find out more about Openreach by visiting www.openreach.co.uk

Ownership of network apparatus and contracting party

The network apparatus/equipment to be installed at your development will be
owned by British Telecommunications plc (‘BT’), and all references to
‘Openreach’ in this document should be read accordingly. Openreach is an
operating division of BT responsible for the physical layers of the BT access and
backhaul networks. Similarly any contract with a developer will be with ‘BT’.

2 3
 How to contact your nearest
newSites office
Office Local Number/E-mail
1
1 Inverness 0800 085 7199
newsite.inverness@openreach.co.uk 1
2 Edinburgh 0800 389 8364
newsite.edinburgh@openreach.co.uk
3 Newcastle 0800 212 874
newsite.newcastle@openreach.co.uk 2
4 Manchester 0800 731 7208
newsite.manchester@openreach.co.uk
5 Liverpool 0800 731 7166
newsite.liverpool@openreach.co.uk
6 Leeds 0800 3898537
newsite.leeds@openreach.co.uk
7 Sheffield & Lincs 0800 169 0338
newsite.reception.sl@openreach.co.uk
20
8 Swansea 0800 731 4815
newsite.swansea@openreach.co.uk
9 Kidderminster 0800 731 6901
21
10 Nottingham
newsite.kidderminster@openreach.co.uk
0800 7318138
3
newsite.nottingham@openreach.co.uk
11 Ipswich 0800 592 389
newsite.ipswich@openreach.co.uk
12 Bedford 0800 731 1877

13 Bristol
newsite.bedford.g@openreach.co.uk
0800 373 529
6
newsite.bristol@openreach.co.uk
14 Oxford 0800 731 5014 PLUS
newsite.oxford@openreach.co.uk
15 Romford 0800731 7346 Dial Before You Dig 5 4 7
newsite.romford@openreach.co.uk
16 Crayford 0800 731 6962 0800 917 3993
17 Southdowns
newsite.crayford@openreach.co.uk
0800 234 6753
The Openreach
newsite.southdowns@openreach.co.uk one-stop cable route 9 10
18 Southampton 0800 234 6752
checking service 8
19 Plymouth
newsite.southampton@openreach.co.uk
0800 212 288
11
Bedford
newsite.plymouth@openreach.co.uk
20 Glasgow 0800 389 8439
newsite.glasgow@openreach.co.uk
12
21 Belfast 0800 085 7546
newsite.btni.team@bt.com
13 15
14
16
17
19 18

4 5
 Make the Openreach newSites office
your first port of call
The newSites team is here to assist you
provide a communications network to meet
What we will need What we will give you
your customers’ needs. We can help you at from you: in return:
every stage of your development.
Confirmation of planning permission Information on how to gain access to You can reach the right people quickly
Openreach is the preferred supplier in the being granted. Openreach plans via Maps by Email and easily via a single contact number –
communications market and by working Details of your site location and a scaled (MBE) for those who use the Internet. 0800 616 866 – between the hours of
closely with you we can design and build layout plan. Failing this, we will supply paper copies 08.30 – 16.30 Monday to Friday. Landline
the network which ensures your customers Floor plans for all the properties on the of the plans showing the relevant existing calls will divert automatically to your local
have access to the latest services offered by development. Openreach plant.These services do incur office. Alternatively see map on page 5 for
these suppliers. Proposed site start date and proposed a small charge available on request. your nearest office.
first occupancy date or when the first Applications for access to MBE can be
telephone line will be required i.e. lift made via www.openreach.co.uk. For
This installation guide will assist you at
lines, as these are usually required quite other enquiries about Maps by Email, call
The Openreach newSites
every stage of your development.
early in the construction phase. our helpdesk on 0800 169 3849 or email team can be contacted
Council addressing for the site as soon as stoke.incoming.notices@openreach.co.uk at any stage of the
it is available to enable us to update our Technical standards and specifications for
records and improve provision times for each stage of your installation. development
our mutual customers. Enough material to enable you to
A copy of any agreement or licence you complete the proposed works. At outline planning stage or when
have with the local highway authority – permission has been granted, our designers
e.g. Highways Act 1980 Section 184 or Your newSites office is available for full can look at your initial proposals, outline
278 agreements – where your work consultation (Monday to Friday). main routes for Openreach cables, and
impacts on the Openreach apparatus in provide all that is necessary for you to plan
the existing public highway. We also provide a FREE service to help supplies to your development. Openreach
you locate our underground network and will require a minimum of four weeks
All work must be carried out within the avoid costly damage. To take advantage notice before on-site work commences. This
requirements of the Health & Safety Work of this, just Dial Before You Dig on will allow for the proposed design lay-out to
Act 1974 and Management of Health & 0800 917 3993. be planned. If this notice period is not
Safety at Work Regulations 1992 and any given, then a charge may be levied for a
other legislation or regulations that affect You will be assigned your own newSites premium service.
the task in hand. In particular, your team who will make regular contact
attention is drawn to the Construction throughout the programme to help you Service to Site Offices
Design Management Regulations 1994 and mark out the best routes for Openreach
the Construction (Health, Safety and plant, arrange for the provision of all If you require service to site offices at the
Welfare) Regulations 1996. Openreach materials and organise the start of construction, you can help the
installation of main cables when process by discussing your needs with us
you’re ready. as early as possible. There is often no
readily available network close to new
Since the role of the newSites team is to construction sites. However, it sometimes
offer advice and ensure that everything goes helps to be able to provide service before
to plan, an early meeting is recommended. the site office is in place if you provide
a suitable site cabinet for our network
termination. See this URL for details:
http://www.openreach.co.uk/orpg/news/
generalbriefings/gen05408.do

6 7
The Openreach policy for the supply of Alterations to the Openreach Network
telephony services on new developments
If preferred for financial purposes, you may initially
1 It is the responsibility of the Openreach 7 Openreach will provide network to an external
Work affecting existing request a budgetary costing that will not include
newSites representative to inform you of the
chosen method of connection to the
NTE or to an internal NTE/DP normally located
within three metres of entry into the premises.
Openreach plant specific details of the alterations scheme design, but
please note this may increase the overall cost of the
Openreach network. This will be determined by Charges may apply for other arrangements.
availability in your locality. If you prefer an When our network apparatus is affected by the work investigation stages.
alternative method of service to that proposed, 8 Whilst construction is in progress, the newSites of others, Openreach, in common with other utility
then this will be considered but additional representative will inspect the work being companies, has to follow the correct legal procedures Where Openreach consider a detailed investigation is
associated costs may apply. Openreach undertaken on behalf of Openreach. Any using the information provided. This helps to essential to ensure the protection of our network, we
newSites will endeavour to issue proposals for sub-standard work found on site will have to be will contact you if no response has been received to
corrected. On-site payments (where applicable) establish important details such as who must pay for
your site within a four week timeframe prior to our initial correspondence, normally within 30
your intended site start date. However, if you cannot be made until all work has been quality any alteration work and also helps to determine the
require a proposed layout in advance of this, a checked and any faults have been corrected to timescales which you can expect us to work within. working days.
premium service charge will be applied. Openreach standards.
If your work could affect Openreach plant located The programme timescales for completion of any
2 It is important that your designated Openreach 9 Any payments for work carried out on physical diversion work can be agreed during the
newSites office is supplied with a within or over your site, or where your site interfaces
Openreach’s behalf will be made in line with detailed costing stage or later, and will depend on
comprehensive final plan of the site layout, the Inland Revenue’s Construction Industry with the public highway, you must provide details to
ideally including all postal addressing Scheme. Guidance is available at our Network Alterations team. Alternatively, you may the scale of the works required.
associated with your new development. Any www.hmrc.gov.uk/new-cis/index.htm wish to request alterations for aesthetic reasons to
subsequent amendments or layout changes to For your information, the costings and associated
change the appearance of your site.
the original proposal will require updating and 10 Where there is a need for additional protection information our Alterations team provide are based
this will need to be amended by your newSites or diversion works to our existing network, on the principles of The New Roads and Streetworks
designer to ensure that a bespoke service is Openreach will require payment of the After receiving your proposals, an initial investigation
delivered. Please note: Any re-work requests of our records will be carried out to assess the Act 1991.
estimated costs, in advance, as provided for in
will incur relevant charges. the New Roads And Street Works Act 1991 possible effects.
Please be aware that Openreach apparatus is
3 We will seek a written agreement in the form Code of Practice.
of a wayleave from you which will give us You will be informed free of charge if it appears that afforded legal protection, therefore it is essential you
permission to install and keep apparatus on 11 It is the Openreach policy not to share any no chargeable alterations are required, including the make contact as early as possible so that we can
site to serve your prospective customers. If you infrastructure with any other licensed/ consider all possible alternatives, identify the most
unlicensed operator. Please contact your necessary precautions that should be taken.
are building multi-occupancy properties – for cost effective solution and avoid damage that could
example flats or apartments – the wayleave newSites team if you require further
information. If alterations are likely, you will receive written details ultimately affect the people who use our services.
must also include wiring up to and including
the Openreach Network Termination Point of the next steps, normally within 20 working days,
(NTP) at each property.
12 Openreach will not normally be involved with including any advance payment required. This will An Openreach representative will visit your site and
the installation of internal extension sockets or discuss and/or mark existing Openreach plant.
4 Should you wish to install Openreach plant associated cabling beyond the Openreach
enable us to contact you and carry out a more
under contract as per the Openreach Network Termination Point (NTP). However, we thorough investigation, normally over the next 25
proposals, we will agree for you to proceed working days, and provide a specification including a Please see http://www.openreach.co.uk/orpg/
can put you in touch with the correct
providing that the necessary quality and safety Openreach department who can provide advice detailed costing. networkinfo/alternetwork/alterationcontacts.do
standards can be met, which could include a and guidance and even undertake such work for contact information for your region.
license to work in the public highway. on request.
However, work on our existing network can
only be carried out by our own accredited 13 With the exception of pre-formed chambers,
engineers and designated contractors. Openreach materials will be delivered free of
5 Openreach will advise on site on all technical charge on request. We operate a bi-weekly
specifications including the use of all Openreach delivery service to all regions. Therefore early
materials and the positioning of plant. notification of requirements is needed. If
Openreach equipment should only be used for materials are required urgently, a small charge
the installation of our own network. Any other could be incurred.
use will be deemed to be inappropriate and 14 The network apparatus/equipment to be
legal redress will be sought. If Openreach stores installed at your development will be owned
are lost, damaged or misused, the cost of by British Telecommunications plc (‘BT’), and
replacement will be invoiced against your all references to ‘Openreach’ in this
company. document should be read accordingly.
6 In the case of flats or apartments, where you Openreach is an operating division of BT
wish to provide service to individual flats beyond responsible for the physical layers of the BT
the intake duct, we will provide materials to access and backhaul networks. Similarly any
serve each flat. We would, however, require you contract with a developer will be with ‘BT’.
to provide the conduit and/or cable tray and lay
the cable supplied in/on it.
8 9
 Damage to Openreach's network can be expensive
Avoiding damage to the with regard to: Miscellaneous charges and how they apply
Openreach underground Direct Cost - the cost of repair.
network Operational Cost - delays associated
with repair. In certain circumstances, miscellaneous charges may be levied on developers and/or
Damage to Openreach's network can be Social Cost - the off site effects i.e. loss their contractors.
expensive for the damager, Openreach and of service to emergency services/centres
the public/public services. or the vulnerable in society. Misuse and/or Requests for premium
Openreach wants to work with you to avoid this Everyone wishes to avoid these “unnecessary costs”. damage to plant proposals and changes
unnecessary cost, to the benefit of all parties. Utilisation of Openreach's “Dial Before You Dig”
Openreach equipment is provided to you free of
to site proposals
service has a proven record of minimising the
Openreach has an extensive underground network potential for damage/cost. Please note: This is charge. However, it should not be misused.
Once Openreach newSites has received the final plan
that can be located inside and/or on the perimeter a FREE service. Openreach equipment should be used only for the
of your site, we will endeavour to issue you with
of a site. This network is vulnerable to excavation- purpose for which it is intended, i.e. Openreach
layout proposals four weeks prior to your intended
related damage unless appropriate precautions network infrastructure. If Openreach stores items are
site start date. If you require a layout more than four
are taken. lost, damaged or otherwise misused, your company
weeks ahead, or for costing purposes, a charge will
will be charged for the cost of replacement.
be applied.
The precautions for avoiding damage to
underground utility plant are contained within the If work is undertaken on behalf of Openreach, the
Once a designed layout of the Openreach
Health & Safety Guide No. 47: ‘Avoiding Danger terms and conditions of the contract are deemed to
infrastructure has been provided, all subsequent
from Underground Services’. This document stresses have been accepted.
requests for revisions or amendments will be
the need for the availability of utility plans on site charged for.
and the use of safe digging practices.
Requests for
To obtain a more precise location of Openreach
apparatus (either within your site or on the adjoining underground services Plant location
ground) and help avoid costly damage, contact:
It is the responsibility of the Openreach newSites
map requests
Dial Before You Dig representative to tell you the method we will use to
We will refer all requests for information about the
Tel: 0800 917 3993 provide service to your site. Our preferred method, if
positioning of our plant to our Map by Email service
Fax: 020 8326 4050 overhead lines are in the proximity, is by telephone
which is available at http://www.openreach.co.uk/
Email: dbyd@openreach.co.uk poles and overhead wires. If you insist on an
orpg/networkinfo/locatenetwork/mapbyemail.do
underground service, your company will be invoiced
for the costs of survey time, stores delivery, work Or If you prefer, paper copies can be sent to you
required to connect your duct to the Openreach by post.
network, and any associated labour charges.
A fee (available on request) will be invoiced, for these
services payable by return to the Openreach
newSites office or Notice Handling Centre.

The charges
Charges are available on request from your
newSites representative.

10 11
Making the infrastructure work for you
with our Engineering Services
If your development requires infrastructure work or build services on non-Openreach
network assets, our Engineering Services can provide a range of services to support you.

Our fully trained specialists can visit your site to establish your requirements and scope
and agree an outline specification for this work. We will then send you an order form and
contract schedule and agreement setting out the terms upon which we will provide the
service to you.

Voice & Data Services Benefits to you

We can provide a range of services including: Engineering Services provides you with a range of
benefits, including:
Cabling – Activities to install customer-owned
communication cables, optical fibre cables and Our ubiquitous engineering ‘footprint’ to
blown fibre tubing both externally and internally provide services to you across mainland UK
Jointing – Activities to joint customer-owned (England, Scotland and Wales)
copper and co-axial cables, to fuse joint Access to our highly skilled and extensively
customer-owned optical fibre cables and to trained engineering field force equipped to
install and terminate customer-owned optical provide you with a wide range of outcomes from
blown fibre cables installation, provision, and configuration of
Internal wiring – All activities to install network equipment and infrastructure
customer-owned Structured Data Cabling (SDC) As the custodian of the nations network asset,
infrastructure and customer and end user Openreach are the trusted partner that
owned equipment and materials, provided that provide quality assured service to all
the wiring is installed on the customers Communication Providers and their customers
premises ‘Tailored’ engineering solutions based upon
Testing – Activities to carry out and record your specific needs and requirements of you
testing of customer owned copper cables, fibre and your customers.
cables and SDC infrastructure.

Let us meet your needs

Simply contact your nearest newSites office via the 0800 number listed for your location on the map
of Britain page or alternatively go to the Openreach Service Products Portal, complete and return the
Customer Requirements Form (CRF): http://www.openreach.co.uk/orpg/products/cpp/engservices.do
and one of our people will be in contact with you.

12 13
Arrangement of carriageway roadcrossings Arrangement of mains services
Dimensions in mm
2000
Carriageway 1720
1550
1255
Draw 960
rope Lamp
Draw standard 690
600 600 rope
Openreach 90mm PVC duct 430

Draw rope through duct and fasten to a stake Carriageway

250

350
Duct plug

Outside stop valve

Duct plug each side of road crossing

Elec lv
450

600
Fig 1

600
Finished road level

900
Water
Notes:
600 min 1. All PVC duct and
700 max

Elec Iv Alt pos’n

Cable TV
drawrope supplied by

Telecomms
Openreach

Elec hv
Openreach 2. Kerbs to be marked each

Gas
side of road crossing
3. All PVC duct to be laid as
600 min Other services straight as possible
280 170 295 295 270 260 430
All round separation Dimensions in mm
from other services

Fig 2 Recommended arrangement of mains in a 2m footway

Road crossing laid on new estates by a developer

Duct laid beneath a carriageway crossing must Openreach duct to be laid on outer edge of Installation of Openreach services is to be All space alongside the duct is to be backfilled
be 600mm cover from final surface levels and, service trench to facilitate box building. executed using either 50mm or 90mm internal with granular fill to a thickness of not less than
for engineering reasons (NJUG 7), 600mm diameter grey PVC duct supplied by Openreach. 75mm. All duct is to be provided with a
separation from other services laid in parallel or A drawrope is necessary. It is to be inserted drawrope after installation, unless local
150mm if laid at right angles (see Fig 2). through the duct and secured to the marker Please be aware that Openreach ducting can agreement is made to substitute the drawrope
posts at both ends of the crossing to facilitate only be used for telecommunications equipment for lead-in cable.
Road crossing requires 600mm separation from future cabling operations. The appropriate duct approved by Openreach.
other services to allow construction of plug should be fitted to either end of duct Please notify your newSites team when duct has
Openreach underground joint boxes without the (See Fig 1). Plug Duct 4B Socket End or Plug All runs should be laid as straight as possible, been laid and is ready for inspection.
need for fixed bends. Duct 4C Spigot End must be inserted to prevent and deviations should be made by carefully
ingress of foreign matter. bending the ducts or by the use of pre-formed Copies of the NJUG7 recommendation on the
Where Openreach duct crosses the carriageway, Openreach bends. positioning of utilities mains and plant for new
adjoining kerbs are to be marked temporarily Cable marker No2 will be required at site works can be obtained from: The National Joint
denoting location of duct positions (see Fig 1). entrance/boundary to ensure link up There should be no more than one pre-formed Utilities Group Secretariat, 30 Millbank, London
identification for Openreach contractors. 90° bend in any single run of duct. Pre-formed SW1P 4RD.
90° bends should not be installed in any duct
linking two Openreach joint boxes. Footpath or
service strip ducting must be laid at 350mm
depth of cover (NJUG7) and 450mm cover in
customer’s premises.

14 15
Pre-formed chamber system Non-standard frames and covers
A pre-formed chamber system, produced Non-standard frames and covers are increasingly being fitted by councils and developers
by Salmor Industries Ltd. has been on new developments, shopping precincts and pedestrianised areas. While they may be
approved by Openreach for use by sympathetic to the surrounding paved areas, these frames and covers are unapproved and
developers. cannot be lifted by traditional means – ie with a Key Joint Box No 5.

Developers have the option to choose this de-

Openreach will take legal proceedings against any
skilled, fast-track method of construction which
developer who fits non-standard covers and will
does away with the need for specialist box building
claim damages and costs against them.
teams and concrete backfill. Complete chambers
can be constructed from excavation to
Approved frames and covers can be recognised by
reinstatement in little more than an hour.
the embossed markings on each end of the plate.
On one end are the markings EN124 (the EU
Known as the Quadbox, the system comes in
standard), B125 (the class of EN124) and the BS
standard 150mm deep structural twin wall ring
Kitemark. On the other are the identifier of the
sections providing maximum flexibility and
manufacturer (SID or SGP), the year of
strength. Joint box Modular Footways (JMF)
manufacture (03, 04 etc) and the BT identifier.
102, 104 and 106 are the Openreach approved
These are the only frames and covers that can
versions. A 150mm concrete base has to be
be used.
provided clean and level.

Box furniture items slot into moulded pockets Openreach engineers are under strict instructions
within the chamber doing away with the not to attempt to lift non-standard covers until a
requirement to cast-in fixings or to drill on site. local risk assessment has been completed. The
Duct entries are also easy to achieve using a covers may be too heavy and the engineers’
standard hole saw mounted on a cordless drill. standard tools may not be suitable. They could
put themselves and the public at risk by
The Quadbox’s modular design makes it perfect attempting to lift the covers without the
for overbuilding on existing ducted networks. appropriate tools.
Existing cables can be managed through the
chamber walls and duct entries can be cut in any If you are unsure about the frame and cover to be
location. Chambers can also be benched to avoid used, please contact your newSites representative
existing services. for guidance.

As well as saving time and skilled labour, this The preferred supplier is Salmor Industries
pre-formed system also has numerous health and Limited. For information,
safety benefits. go to: www.salmor.co.uk

The Quadbox does not form part of Openreach’s

free stores listing available to developers. It will
need to be purchased direct from the
manufacturer.

For information, go to:

www.salmor.co.uk/products

16 17
Jointing chamber construction JBF 104/106 Kerb side
JBF 104
Concrete fillet 445 915 Cover frame
This guide outlines the construction of
joint boxes which allow the connection of (D)
175
a property’s telephone supply to the main (C)
network. 365
(B)
275
The joint box diagrams opposite and specifications
below refer to a JBF 104 and 106 type boxes 350
which are the most common on new min (B) 600
developments. Box designs and specifications may 75 (C) 750
vary. This will be determined by the duct lay-out 50 (D) 900
Correct standard of finished box Road
90
and whether multi-way ducts or major 460
200 90
roadcrossings need to be incorporated into the crossing
Duct
network design. 100 min

Materials 250 90

700
175 360
Bricks (B3921 engineering)
Cement (BS12 ordinary mix,
Concrete base 150
3 parts sand to 1 part cement)
Dimensions
Internal dimensions of in mm
Specifications joint box JBF 104 (not to scale)
Unacceptable standard of finished box Brickwork: Stretcher bond Cable bearer brackets
Base
Step
150mm concrete base to be clean and level.
Brickwork
All brickwork to be keyed in at corners and
A step is required in all boxes with a depth
greater than 700mm and two steps if greater Concrete fillet 610
Kerb side JBF 106
than 1050mm. 1310 Cover frame
pointed.
Frame and cover (F)
Frame and cover frame to be set on a mortar Internal dimensions (E)
bed and fitted squarely to box structure. 710
Lifting keys for these covers can be purchased JBF 104
from the following supplier: Length: 915mm
TW Engineering, Angular House, Eagle Road, Width: 445mm 300
Quarry Hill Industrial Park, Ilkeston, Derbyshire Depth: (B) 600mm 350
min (E) 1050
DE7 4RB (C) 750mm (F) 1200
Tel: 0115 932 3223. (D) 900mm (min depth for road crossing)
Description: Lifting Key No5. 150
Sump to 50 min
Item code: TW1731. JBF 106 150
be fitted min 90
Duct Entries Length: 1310mm in boxes
Duct must not enter through corners and be no deeper 100 min 90
Width: 610mm Duct
less than 75mm from the side wall. Duct to than
Depth: (E) 1050mm 700mm
enter wall 350mm minimum depth from top of (F) 1200mm
Min depth for 200
frame and cut flush. Duct to clear base by min
100mm minimum. road crossing 900mm
Any deviation from these measurements must be
Bolts authorised by your newSites team. Concrete base 150
Four bolts to be fitted in each box to allow (See diagrams opposite)
installation of ironwork. Dimensions
Internal dimensions of in mm
Footnote: These illustrations are a guide. joint box JBF 106 (not to scale)
Detailed technical drawings are available from Brickwork: English bond Cable bearer brackets
18 your newSites team. 19
 Specifications for Carriageway Chamber
Lifting keys for this cover can be purchased from:
Materials TW Engineering, Angular House, Eagle Road,
Bricks: Grade B to BS EN771 & BS EN772 Quarry Hill Industrial Park, Ilkeston, Derbyshire
Cement: BS12 Portland Cement. DE7 4RB
Concrete: Grade 32/40 reinforced concrete with Tel: 0115 932 3223
A393 Grade Mesh at 70mm Cover - BS EN 206 Description: Lifter Manhole Cover 4B
Mortar: Designated within BS 5628; Part 1 Duct Entries
Requirements for Mortar Table 1; Type (i) BS 5628 Where the duct enters the chamber the duct shall
enter flush with the wall.
Duct must not enter through corners and be no
Specifications less than 75mm from the side wall.
Duct to enter wall 600mm minimum depth from
Base top of frame.
Concrete Grade 32/40 Duct to clear base by 100mm minimum.
A393 Grade Mesh at 70mm Cover Ironwork
Brickwork Fit all Bolts, Cable Bearer Wall Types and Bracket
All brickwork to be keyed in at corners Cable Bearer as supplied.
and pointed. A single step shall be fitted as defined in the
All Brickwork shall be constructed with a 10mm drawing.
joint thickness of cement mortar and shall be of Internal Dimensions
English Bond. The Carriageway No.1 Frame & Cover with a
Frame and Cover suitable Mortar bed will sit 165mm above the
Carriageway No.1 Frame and Cover to be set on a brickwork. The brickwork construction will have a
mortar bed and fitted squarely to box structure to 610mm x 610mm opening and a 750mm depth.
Highway Agency Document standards HA104. Any deviation from these measurements must be
authorised by your newSites team.
Kerb side

1040

610 610 Bedding Material to

150 HA104-02
300
165mm F/C

290

150
Reinstatement to min
Specification For The 190 750
435
Reinstatement of
Openings in 2 bricks
Highways (SOHR) min
Step 90 Ducts
90
Cable bearer
wall type 150

Concrete Note: For use with

base 150mm Carriageway No. 1
A393 Mesh 950 X 950 Frame & Cover
20 21
New External Termination Point (NTE)
Openreach has introduced a New External Termination Point (NTE) to be fitted on the
outside of all new houses for telecommunications services from September 2007.
This is now the demarcation point between Openreach’s external network and the
developer/customer-provided wiring.

Installation
Lay Openreach grey duct from the footway joint
box (with the socket end presented to the joint
box) and terminate with a pre-formed 90° bend
at the outside of the house wall. Keep duct runs
to a minimum depth of cover of 350mm beneath
the proposed finish level (450mm under a
soft surface).

Supply and install standard 20mm electrical

conduit through the cavity wall at a point vertically
above the end of the service duct.

All duct is to be provided with a lead-in cable after

installation. Leave one metre at the house and
three metre tails in the chamber.

Service duct should be cut level, two bricks

below damp proof course and should be sealed at
both ends using Duct Plug 1A, to prevent ingress
of debris.

External capping 25 and Connector Bend 4 to be

fitted as required.

Materials available
from Openreach All internal wires and sockets beyond the
external NTE will be the responsibility of
90mm and 50mm internal diameter PVC duct, the builder/customer, unless installed
including pre-formed bends and tees and commissioned by Openreach Developers benefit because:
Grey PVC capping, bend and cover (Capping 25 Engineers. Developers should ensure that
and Connector Bend 4) their electricians terminate the relevant No need to supply and fit backbox for NTE5a. Developers should ensure that the internal
Duct Plug 1A cables to the correct terminals, using the extension wiring is planned to emerge through
External cable 2, 3, 5 IDC connector, within the external All internal sockets are provided by the the outer wall and is terminated on the customer
(See diagram on page 23) NTE and identify the positions of any developer and can be of any design conforming wiring side of the New External Termination
internal telephone sockets to the to BS Standard. Point (NTE).
homeowner. It is important to inform
your Openreach Newsite Representative Openreach or its sub-contractors will no longer Multi-occupancy buildings (i.e. flats/apartments)
when plots are ready for connection in require access to properties for the installation. will continue to use the existing NTE5a within the
order to avoid delays in service provision So there will be no more asking for keys etc and property for now but Openreach is looking at
eliminates the risk of soiling or damage to further External NTE/Line Module options.
recently completed interiors.
22 23
Entry into flats and business properties
A number of options are available for cable entry into industrial units. An appropriate
method of entry will have been agreed between Openreach and the site developer at the
initial design stage. Any subsequent revision which may be required should always be
agreed with Openreach before execution.
The following are instructions for the installation of telephony supply into residential
flats, apartments and business properties. Should you require additional information
please consult your Openreach newSites team who will advise you.
Each Individual Flat must be provided with its own cable from the main entry point or as
agreed at the initial site meeting/proposal stage. The cables to each flat remain the property
of Openreach and should be terminated on an Openreach Master NTE. This NTE should be
placed in an accessible position for maintenance and service purposes. If the Openreach NTE
is not acceptable to you, please discuss the matter with your Newsite representative as other
arrangements can be made i.e. wiring as extensions from the master socket. Despite other
arrangements being available the first NTE in the flat must be an Openreach one in
an accessible location.

Please note:
Multi media sockets are not acceptable to Openreach and Openreach wiring
should not be terminated directly onto such a socket. In the event of this
happening and a fault occurring the offending socket will be removed and
replaced by a single Openreach socket. Charges will apply.

Installation
Materials available
Lay 50mm or 90mm internal diameter grey duct
from the footway joint box with the socket end from Openreach
presented to the joint box and terminate with a
90° pre-formed bend at the inside of the site wall. 50mm internal diameter PVC duct, including
Keep duct runs to a depth of 350mm/450mm pre-formed bends and tees
beneath the proposed external ground level. (Duct No 56). Entry into flats and business properties
(Please refer to Installation Guide on Joint Boxes 90mm internal diameter PVC duct, including
and External Work and Installation Guide on pre-formed bends and tees (Duct No 54D).
Ducting for more information). Plugs Pressure.
Draw Cord. Important
For new buildings the section of duct which passes Solvent Cement Compound 21. It is the developer’s responsibility to ensure that all duct seals on site have been
through the wall/floor is to be coated with Solvent installed correctly. Seal ducts as follows. Tie drawrope in hole provided on plugs
Cement Compound 21 and then a dry 3:1 (See diagram opposite) pressure and insert plug pressure into end of duct and tighten. For 90mm duct
sand/cement mixture. Any joints inside a building use Plugs Pressure 1 and for 50mm duct use plugs pressure 3 see p35. This is to
should also be coated with Solvent Cement prevent any ingress of water or gas into the property.
Compound 21.
Note: It is important that the incoming duct is sited so that access can be made
Wiring within cavity walls should be installed at all times for service provision and maintenance.
within 20mm conduit to ensure hassle free
maintenance.

24 25
Openreach standard wiring guide
Installing additional telephone sockets as part of the overall building programme avoids Installation
the problem of exposed wiring and will enhance the appearance of the finished project.
All internal cables/wiring should be run inside conduit to enable future maintenance Extension cabling shall be run from the Back Box Detailed information on cable installation and
which does not disturb finished surfaces. of the proposed main socket or external NTE, with separation is given in the British Standard Code of
300mm left coiled within for connection to the Practice BS6701 Part 1, particularly clause 6 and
The following is a guide for the connection of extension sockets that you may wish to main socket or external NTE. Extension sockets the relevant sections of the latest IEE Regulations
install at the time of build or construction. shall be mounted on single-gang flush steel boxes for Electrical Installation (Regulation 525 is of
conforming to BS 4662:1970. Not more than two particular importance). Where not supported in
The provision of all internal wires beyond the first socket or external NTE will normally be extension cable terminations are permitted to any conduit or trunking, cables must be cleated at
the responsibility of the builder/customer but, if you prefer, we can arrange for the work Openreach standard socket. intervals of not more than 300mm.
to be carried out and commissioned by an Openreach engineer at our normal installation
Extension sockets should be located close to The wiring pattern for cabling may be either series
rates (please contact your newSites representative for details). power sockets to facilitate the use of PC modem or spur. Typical patterns are illustrated overleaf.
points and answering and facsimile machines
Basic materials required which require both types of supply. However, a It is not the responsibility of Openreach to ensure
distance of not less than 50mm must be continuity of the cabling unless commissioned to
The following materials are not part of our
maintained between telephone cables and power do so.
standard provision for new housing developments
cables throughout. Where this is not practical they
and may be purchased locally.
must be separated by an acceptable divider of
rigid non-conducting material.
Back box for extensions sockets
Flush-mounted extension socket points
Internal 4-wire cable

Installation of internal
Guide to telephone socket location
extension sockets Main First Second Third Fourth
Socket Extension Extension Extension Extension
This specification defines the work required for the
installation of concealed telephone extension Lounge Lounge
cabling and sockets, if carried out by your
Hallway Hallway
electrician.
Kitchen Kitchen
Master Bedroom Master Bedroom Master Bedroom
Second Bedroom Second Bedroom
Please note: From the options shown within each Study Study Study
The main socket or external NTE must be supplied by Openreach and remains column, select your one preferred Third Bedroom Third Bedroom
the property of Openreach. If an external NTE is used, no internal main socket location for each socket.
will be provided by Openreach. All extension wiring beyond the main socket is Fourth Bedroom Fourth Bedroom
owned by the customer/developer. The wiring and sockets must be of telephone
or data grade, the wire diameter must be between 0.4mm and 0.63mm and
either solid or multi-strand. Bell/Alarm wire is not suitable under any
circumstance. Any faults attended by Openreach, and proved to be due
to the customers own equipment will be chargeable.

26 27
Openreach standard wiring guide Broadband provision

Broadband is now established as the must-have For specific details relating to your own site layout,
technology for high speed global communication. contact your newSites team.
Broadband and next generation networks can be
enabled on all new residential sites by using this
Openreach network template.

Series cable installation

Spur cable installation

Phone sockets cabling arrangements (for guidance only)

External NTE or
Secondary Secondary master line jack unit
line jack unit line jack unit (supplied and fitted by Openreach)

2 2 2 (B)

3 3 3

4 4 4

5 5 5 (A)

COLOUR CODE: Blue Brown Green Orange

Customer side Openreach side

Residential and business extension wiring can be undertaken by Openreach at extra cost

28 29
Diverse routing Blown fibre tubing Wayleaves

Diverse Routing is an additional cost option With people rapidly becoming accustomed to Openreach will require a wayleave (consent in
available to the business sector which protects living life in the communications fast lane, there is writing) to install, maintain, adjust, repair or alter
the customer’s telephony and network systems an increasing likelihood for occupiers to want their Openreach plant under or over the development
against cable failure. It is most commonly used in property to come with inbuilt fibre optic for the statutory purpose as defined in our Code of
the banking, call centres and emergency services capability. Practice. The only exception is where the owner is
sectors where any interruption to service would the person requiring the telephone service. In that
create major problems. To meet this demand, Openreach will require case, the contract between Openreach and the
the installation of blown fibre tubing on some owner is, in effect, the wayleave and gives
In the unlikely event of a cable failure, the multi-occupancy developments. Developers will Openreach permission to install cables across
customer’s network automatically switches to be requested to run tubing within the building the land.
the alternative connection thus ensuring full to ensure adequate availability for all customers.
access is maintained at all times. Charges for A wayleave must be obtained prior to installing
this service are available from your chosen any Openreach plant and is part of your contract.
Communication Provider.
Openreach currently has two UK offices dealing
with queries relating to wayleaves.

For enquiries relating to England, Scotland For enquiries relating to Northern Ireland
Diverse routing and Wales, please ring 0800 581 525 (option please ring 028 9021 5716 or e-mail
and blown 4) or email wayleaves.north@openreach.co.uk wayleaves.ni@bt.com
or wayleaves.south@openreach.co.uk
fibre tube
installations

Lightning protection
Customer 3
Even though this is an uncommon event, some
geographic locations are more susceptible to
lightning strikes than others. We will, as a matter
of course, now check out all new developments
Customer 2 whilst in the planning and design stage. If your
site is identified as being in an area of higher risk,
you may need additional lightning protection and
this will be factored in during the build stage of
Customer 1 your site.
Blown fibre
from As a precautionary measure we may ask you to
exchange provide an earth wire to the Openreach Main
distribution point or run copper tape in the ground
Basement Secondary to the jointing chambers.
Main lead lead-in
from exchange

30 31
The Openreach payments process Developer Quality Checklist
Developer NSI Number
When and where Openreach enters into a contract with the developer Address NSR Contact number
or sub-contractor to lay the on-site infrastructure, the following process
must be followed to ensure that invoices are paid in a timely manner.

Checked OK
1 If Openreach is to pay for works on new The date of issue Item audited Yes No N/A Remarks
The supplier's name and address and
residential developments, a contract must 1 Correct type of duct provided.
first be signed. If you have no contract, VAT Registration number [if applicable]
Total charge exclusive of VAT and the 2 Ducts laid at minimum depth, or exceptions
please contact your newSites team to
rate of VAT agreed and documented.
discuss this. The rates payable for this type
of work have previously been agreed with Any discount including rate of discount; 3 2 pair cable or draw rope provided in
the House Builders Federation (HBF) and are and sound condition and correctly jointed
set rates which are non-negotiable. Total VAT payable. where applicable.

Do ensure all invoices are addressed in 4 Duct separation distance maintained,

2 Openreach will only pay invoices on full
or exceptions agreed and documented.
completion of the site, providing that the full to:-
required quality standards are met. 5 Bolts fitted during construction of box.
BT Accounts Payable
PO Box 378 6 Bearers and brackets fitted.
3 Before the developer submits any invoice he
Steps fitted where appropriate.
must arrange for a Quality Statement sign Parkway Business Centre
off by his newSites representative (NSR). The Manchester 7 Ducts properly trimmed and keyed when
NSR will then arrange a meeting on site and M14 0WE set in walls.
ensure that all work meets the standards set (unless advised otherwise on the purchase
order or by a BT buyer) 8 Frame and covers bedded and
out in the contract. (No payment will be installed correctly.
made if the standards are not met). The
You should also ensure that you have 9 Cement and brick types used as specified
form opposite will be the template used in
supplied the appropriate CIS and UTR or exceptions agreed and documented.
signing-off work ready for payment.
information to Accounts Payable to enable
your invoices to be processed. 10 Boxes free of debris or other
4 Once this sheet has been signed, the inappropriate material.
developer can submit his invoice to our
Invoices should be submitted within one 11 Cable entry at properties installed and
Accounts Payable duty. The invoice must
year of the date of the site sign off protected correctly.
quote the following:-
Further information on what should 12 XNTE correctly installed.
The appropriate Purchase Order and/or be included on the invoice can be
contract number (as agreed) 13 Internal wiring correctly installed.
found on the “Selling 2 BT” website
The Openreach NSI reference number http://www.selling2bt.bt.com/Payment/ 14
The number of plots involved and the BetterPaymentPracticeUK/default.htm
unit cost per plot Plot Numbers encompassed in this check sheet
Ensure invoices are addressed to 5 If subsequent NSR visits are incurred on
'BT' or 'British Telecommunications'. notification of snagging list completion but
the work has not been completed to the
Do ensure a full tax invoice additionally quality standards charges may be raised
includes the following: Developer’s representative (print name): Newsite representative:
6 When all remedial work has been completed
An identifying number [invoice number] to the quality standards, the sign-off will Signature: Signature:
BT's name, address take place and the contract payment can
The time of the supply then be progressed. Date: Date:

N.B. THE ABOVE DEFECTS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AND REQUIRE REMEDIAL ACTION BEFORE PAYMENT
32 IS AUTHORISED. IF THE ABOVE DEFECTS ARE CLAIMED AS COMPLETE AND SUBSEQUENT VISITS 33
DEMONSTRATE OTHERWISE TIME RELATED CHARGES WILL BE APPLIED
newSites stores list

DUCT 54 (90mm) 6m length DUCT 54 (90mm) 1.5m length DUCT 56 (50mm) 3m length DUCT TEE 54/56 DUCT TEE DUCT TEE 56/56
(order in metres} (order in metres} (order in metres} (90mm to 50mm) (54/56 Split) (50mm to 50mm)
Code: 100268 Code: 095070 Code: 100271 Code: 001792 Code: 094976 Code: 095004

BEND DUCT 54A BEND DUCT 54B BEND DUCT 54C FRAME AND FRAME AND BOLTS FOUNDATION
(90mm) (90mm) (90mm) COVER 104C COVER 106C No 2
Code: 094937 Code: 095065 Code: 095265 Code: 075875 Code: 075877 Code: 070131

BEND DUCT 56 BEND DUCT 56A BEND DUCT 56B CABLE BEARER BRACKET CABLE PINS LOCKING CABLE
house end (50mm) (50mm) (50mm) Wall Type 3 BEARER BEARER
Code: 090126 Code: 094929 Code: 095002 Code: 070283 Code: 070210/1/2 Code: 070858

COLLAR DUCT 56 COLLAR DUCT 54 DUCT REDUCER STEPS MANHOLE PLUG PRESSURE No 1 PLUG PRESSURE No 3
(50mm) (90mm) (90mm to 50mm) No 1 (90mm) (50mm)
Code: 093989 Code: 093933 Code: 095049 Code: 071236 Code: 075856 Code: 075857

34 35
newSites stores list newSites stores order form
Duct 54 90mm Code Qty Duct 56 50mm Code Qty
Duct 54 (6M) 100268 Duct 56 (3M) 100271
Duct 54 (1.5M) 095070 Duct 56 – 90º (House Bend) 090126
Duct 54A 90º (Bends) 094937 Duct 56B – 45º (Tee Bend) 095002
Duct 54C 30º (Bends) 095265 Duct 56A – 90º (Long Bend) 094929
Duct 54B 18º (Bends) 095065 Duct 56 (Split Duct) 095086
Duct 54 10º (Bends) 094958 Duct 56 Kits Repair 2A 095089
Duct 54D (Split) 3M 095039 Duct 56A Collar 093989
PLUG DUCT 1A COVER 101A CAPPING 25 Duct 54 Repair Kit 3A 095051 Duct 56/56 Tees 095004
100 in a bag (50mm) (cover enter to house) (for house wall) Duct 54/56 Tee (Solid) 001792 Duct Marker No2 071986
Code: 094987 Code: 071987 Code: 072180 Duct 54/56 Reducer 095049 Blown Fibre Tubing Code Qty
Duct 54A Collar 093933
Duct 54/56 Tees (Split) 094976 Cable & Rope Code Qty
Drawrope Bagged 250mt 041304
Joint Box Items Code Qty Cable PET 2 Pair (200mt Reel) 034468
Bolts Foundation No. 2 070131 Cable Eqmt 2503G 4W (Blk) 034507
Pins Locking Cable Bearer 070858 Cable Eqmt 2502 4W (white) 031310
Bracket Cable Bearer 3 070210 Miscellaneous Items Code Qty
Bracket Cable Bearer 5 070211 Blanking Plates 534913
Bracket Cable Bearer 8 070212 NTE 5A 314444
Cable Bearer Wall Type 2 070282 Capping 25 072180
CONNECTOR BEND BAGGED DRAWROPE CABLE 2pr Cable Bearer Wall Type 3 070283 Connector Bend 4 095096
(cover duct at wall) (250m) (200m on a drum) Joint Box 23 094960 Cover 101A 071987
Code: 095096 Code: 041304 Code: 034468 Joint Box 23 (Cover) 094961 Plugs Duct 1A (bag of 100) 094987
Joint Box 26 095037 Compound 21 071821
Frame & Cover 102C 075874 Plug Pressure 1 075856
Frame & Cover 104C 075875 Plug Pressure 3 075857
Frame & Cover 106C 075877 Single BackBox CD2722 072012
Grating Sump 094956 Plug Duct 4C (roadcrossings) 095106
Bolt 38 for Joint Box 26 072589 Plug Duct 4B (roadcrossings) 095105
Steps Manhole No. 1 071236 Ext NTE 037897
Cover for JBC3N 015667 Module 037898

BACK BOX CD2722 NETWORK TERMINATING COMPOUND NSI Ref No Date of Order
(for master socket) EQUIPMENT 5A No 21 SITE NAME/ADDRESS
Code: 072012 Code: 314444 Code: 071821

Post Code
Contact Name Contact No
Fax No
Part or Complete Stores Order for Site PART/COMPLETE delete which does not apply

Cover for EXTERNAL COMPLETED FORM FAX TO

JBC3N NTE
Code: 015667 Code: 037897
FOR ADDITIONAL ITEMS NOT LISTED ABOVE PLEASE CONTACT THE NEWSITES OFFICE
36 37
38
Useful contact numbers
National newSites
0800 616 866
www.openreach.co.uk/newsite

Network Protection dial before you dig

0800 917 3993
www.dialbeforeyoudig.com

Openreach Invoice Unit (enquiries)

0800 515 465

Wayleaves (England, Scotland & Wales)

0800 581 525
email: wayleaves.north@openreach.co.uk
or wayleaves.south@openreach.co.uk

Wayleaves (Northern Ireland)

028 9021 5716
email: wayleaves.ni@bt.com

Your Openreach NSR:

Name:

Telephone No:

The telecommunications services described in this publication

are subject to availability and may be modified from time to time.
Services and equipment are provided subject to British
Telecommunications plc’s respective standard conditions of
contract. Nothing in this publication forms any part of any contract.
BT, Openreach, the BT logo and the Openreach identity are trademarks
of British Telecommunications plc.

© British Telecommunications plc 2009.

Registered office: 81 Newgate Street, London EC1A 7AJ
Registered in England No: 1800000
Produced by Openreach
Printed in England

PHME 58617
Printed on paper which meets international environmental standards.