Contractor's
Corner
Under the Telecommunications Act 1999, contractors are required to carry out telecommunication cable detection work (TCDW) prior to starting earthworks. To this end, a licensing scheme for telecommunication cable detection workers together with the sale of the plant map was implemented in order to minimise telecommunication cable cut incidents at construction sites. The scheme is to ensure that the contractors engage only qualified persons to detect the location of the telecommunication cables before carrying out any earthworks. In addition, the contractors are required to notify the telecommunication system licensee(s), i.e. StarHub, for commencement of earthworks and obtain updated plans from the telecommunications system licensee(s). Contractors should also consult the telecommunication system licensee(s) on the precautionary measures (e.g. adhere to the Dos and Don’t) to be taken to avoid damaging the telecommunication cables.
