Introduction

Hand Rodding Operators working on the Openreach network must hold the relevant qualifications and certifications to do so in the UK. The Q Modules are a range of training courses approved by Openreach to ensure their workers operate to the correct standards and safety methods. This craft module, K008, is a prerequisite to some Q modules within our delivery suite and can be booked as a stand alone course. 

Course Outline

Through a mix of practical and classroom-based exercises and tutorials, delegates will cover legislative and administrative knowledge and awareness while participating in practical tuition, focusing on hand rodding in an underground telecoms network. 

The course reflects national standards and industry best practices and is fully accredited in line with regulations. In addition, choose to learn with Citrus, and delegates benefit from training in our custom-built training facilities and customer-first approach to how we do business. 

Our occupationally and technically-experienced trainers will assess delegates in this one-day course at a 1:4 delegate ratio, awarding successful delegates an Openreach approved Citrus Training certificate following an end-point assessment (EPA). 

Course Programme

This training is essential for operatives working on underground telecoms networks using hand rodding techniques, including cobras, to install cables or draw rope. Delegates will review legal requirements, ensure safety compliance, and understand procedures and appropriate documentation and classifications. 

The course content includes:

Theory training and assessment for hand rodding and cabling 

• Site surveys and documentation 
• Policies and legal requirements  
• Guarding, gas testing 
• Use of the correct equipment and components 
• Openreach hand rodding specifications and methods 
• Theory test 

Practical Assessment  

• Survey and investigation  
• Gas testing 
• Site preparation 
• Hand rodding, cabling and roping 
• Preparation for the works to follow 
• Close down of site

Operators must demonstrate the ability to hand rod in an underground network chamber to the standards and specifications set out in the training to pass.  

On Completion

At the end of the training, successful delegates can hand rod into an underground Openreach joint box chamber or manhole.

This module is also accepted on all other networks for operators not employed by Openreach.

The K008 Hand Rodding Certification is valid for three years from the date of completion.

Who Should Attend?

This Citrus certification is aimed at operatives working on the Openreach underground network and other third-party-owned UG telecom networks carrying out cable and draw rope installation using hand rodding techniques.

Course Duration

• One-day course - EPA only 
• Two day course - trains delegates to understand the challenges, processes and protocols of hand-rodding techniques in telecoms with theory and practical training. Day two is a written exam and practical EPA..  

Why Citrus?

Quality and customer experience are paramount to us here at Citrus. We strive to provide exemplary service to our clients and produce excellent results from our delegates. As a result, we are the leading UK-based provider of health, safety, and technical training and assessment services to the Built Environment and Utility sectors.  

We proudly work with 85 of the country’s top 100 building services companies providing courses nationwide. As an approved NOPS and Openreach training provider, we deliver Telecoms Training qualifications through our accredited centres in our custom-built, real-world training facilities, offering safe and realistic training simulations.  

Serving the sector for nearly 20 years, our dedicated trainers provide expert knowledge and occupational experience to deliver Telecoms training courses. 

Things You Need to Know

Delegates need to hold the Mandatory Safety Accreditation: SA006 - Safe Working in Civils, and Mandatory SWQR: Unit LA, Unit O1, Unit O2, Unit O3 to take this training course. 

This Citrus-certified course has practical elements. Delegates must inform their trainer if they have any serious health issues, physical problems, special considerations, or take any medication which may require additional support.