MIL-STD-2042-3 Fiber Optic Cable Topology Installation Standard Methods For Naval Ships Cable Penetrations Part 3 Of 7 PartsThis standard practice provides detailed methods of optical fiber cable penetrations through ship structure and equipment via stuffing tubes, swage tubes, multiple cable penetrators, chafing collars and nipples.

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MIL-STD-2042-3B(SH)

4.2   Safety precautions.  The following safety precautions apply:

a.        The classification of a laser is based on the ability of the optical beam to cause damage to the eye.  Under normal operating conditions, an optical fiber communication system (OFCS) is inherently an eye safe system; but, when an optical fiber connection is broken and optical viewing instruments are used, it is possible that hazardous energy can enter the eye.  For

this reason four service group hazard classes have been devised to

indicate the degree of hazard and required hazard control measures.  Refer

to ANSI Z136.2 for a full technical definition.  The following laser

safety precautions shall apply:

(1) Ensure personnel are familiar with the laser degree of hazard and the required control measures.

(2) Light generated by light emitting diodes (LED's) and laser diodes may not be visible but may still be hazardous to the unprotected eye. Never stare into the end of an optical fiber connected to an LED or laser diode and do not stare into broken, severed or disconnected optical cables.

(3) Do not view the primary beam or a specular reflection from an OFCS with an optical microscope, eye loupe or other viewing instrument. The instrument may create a hazard due to its light gathering capability.

b.        Safety glasses shall be worn when handling bare fibers.  Always handle cable carefully to avoid personal injury.  The ends of optical fibers may be extremely sharp and can lacerate or penetrate the skin or cause permanent eye damage if touched to the eye.  If the fiber penetrates the skin, it most likely will break off, in which case the extraction of the fiber should be performed by trained medical personnel to prevent further complications.

c.   Wash hands after handling bare fibers.

d.        Do not eat or drink in the vicinity of bare optical fibers.  Ingested optical fibers may cause serious internal damage.

e.        Never look into the end of a BOF tube.  Always wear approved safety glasses when handling BOF tubes that may be connected to a pressure source.

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