This is intended to outline O&M issues that require discussion and mutual agreement by both the optical fiber cable owner and sewer pipeline operator. The purpose is developing sufficient written procedures and practices to allow optical fiber systems to coexist as a secondary use within a sewer. To the extent that sewers are primarily for conveying flow, it is the responsibility of the optical fiber cable owner to accommodate sewer O&M practices and develop optical fiber system O&M procedures that will not material impact the sewer's primary function.

Since the practice of integrating sewers and optical fiber systems is an emerging activity, this practice will help establish guidelines for its rapid and safe deployment, ensuring that the installed facilities are operable as intended on a long-term basis.