COFNII CBFI — Certified Blown Fibre Installer
Air Blown Fibre Installation Course
Air blown fibre training develops practical skills in installing compatible fibre units and fibre optic cables using controlled compressed air. This hands-on course covers duct preparation, route checks, blowing equipment set-up and installation control. Explore blown fibre tubing, microducts and sub-duct systems, including the factors that influence airflow, friction and cable movement. Learn to recognise installation problems, work safely with blowing equipment and record completed work for a clear, professional handover on site.
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Course at a glance
Theory and practical, hands-on training
2 days
Duration
Fibre Optics Training Centre
Crewe, Cheshire
CW1 6BG
Location
New entrants, career changers and experienced installers
Who it’s for
Open Awards Level 3
Optical Fibre and Cable Blowing
Qualification
What you will be able to do
By the end of the course, you should be able to:
✓ Explain air-assisted installation principles and distinguish fibre units from fibre optic cables when reviewing a planned blowing operation.
✓ Read installation drawings and route information to identify the path, access points and practical requirements before starting work.
✓ Assess how route length, bends and duct condition affect preparation requirements and the performance of the installation.
✓ Identify the roles of blown fibre tubing, microducts and sub-duct systems within the installation methods covered during training.
✓ Relate cable characteristics and cable-to-duct fill ratios to equipment suitability and the relevant manufacturer installation guidance.
✓ Prepare duct and sub-duct systems using the connection and termination methods covered during the practical training activities.
✓ Carry out air pressure testing and record the information needed to review the prepared duct route.
✓ Explain how compressor selection and airflow requirements relate to the equipment, duct system and cable being installed.
✓ Set up blowing heads and cable feed systems using the demonstrated methods and relevant equipment guidance.
✓ Handle and load cable carefully, recognising how preparation affects friction and the risk of installation damage.
✓ Apply the end-to-end, mid-span and onward blowing techniques covered during training to the relevant practical installation arrangements.
✓ Control cable movement and installation pressure methodically, using appropriate lubrication where required by the installation method.
✓ Recognise restrictions, excessive friction, pressure loss and airflow problems, and apply the corrective techniques covered during training.
✓ Apply safe working practices for compressed-air equipment, fibre handling and the underground telecommunications activities covered during training.
✓ Label installed infrastructure and prepare air-test and installation records showing the work undertaken and any issues identified.
Course modules and practical training
This air blown fibre course combines technical instruction with practical training, following the installation from route information and duct preparation through to controlled blowing, troubleshooting and documentation.
Blown fibre systems, route information and planning
Explore the principles of air-assisted installation and the roles of blown fibre tubing, microducts and sub-duct systems. Distinguish fibre units from fibre optic cables and relate their construction to the installation method. Read route information and installation drawings to identify the proposed path, access points, route length and changes of direction. Consider how bends, duct condition and the intended cable affect preparation and the blowing operation. Use manufacturer guidance when reviewing the planned installation and its practical requirements.
Safe working and preparation
Identify the safety considerations associated with compressed air, fibre handling and underground telecommunications infrastructure. Organise equipment and the working area before practical activities. Follow the trainer’s instructions and the relevant equipment guidance throughout preparation, operation and troubleshooting.
Cable, duct and equipment compatibility
Consider cable characteristics and cable-to-duct fill ratios when selecting a suitable installation arrangement. Relate the fibre unit or cable, duct system and blowing equipment to the manufacturer’s guidance, checking suitability before beginning the planned work.
Duct preparation, connections and sub-duct installation
Practise preparing duct and sub-duct systems for fibre installation, including the connection and termination methods covered by the programme. Examine how duct condition, joints and route restrictions can affect the operation. Review sub-duct installation methods and the importance of preparing a suitable route before loading the blowing equipment. Connect the practical checks with the route information and intended installation sequence.
Compressor selection, airflow and pressure
Explore compressor selection and the airflow requirements of the installation arrangement. Relate the available air supply to the duct route, cable characteristics and blowing equipment. Consider the difference between airflow and pressure when reviewing installation performance, using the relevant manufacturer guidance. Understand why air supply and equipment limits must be considered together when preparing for a controlled installation and investigating poor results.
Blowing equipment set-up and cable handling
Prepare the blowing head and cable feed system for the installation being undertaken. Relate the equipment arrangement to the compatible cable and duct, and follow the set-up sequence demonstrated during training. Practise loading and handling cable so that its condition is protected as it enters the equipment. Consider how poor preparation or equipment arrangement can increase friction, disrupt feeding or reduce installation performance. Review the set-up before starting the practical blowing activity.
Air pressure testing and route checks
Carry out the air pressure testing covered by the programme and record the relevant information. Identify leaks, restrictions and route problems that may affect installation. Relate the results to duct preparation before proceeding with the planned blowing activity.
End-to-end, mid-span and onward blowing
Explore end-to-end, mid-span and onward blowing techniques, considering how route length, access points and changes of direction influence the selected approach. Practise controlling cable movement and installation pressure within the equipment guidance and the trainer’s instructions. Consider the effects of bends and friction, and the use of appropriate cable lubrication where specified. Relate the chosen method to the prepared duct route and the fibre unit or cable being installed. Throughout the practical activity, focus on maintaining control of the process and protecting the cable from damage rather than simply increasing installation speed.
Installation performance and systematic troubleshooting
Recognise changes in blowing performance and investigate the factors that may be responsible. Work through duct restrictions, excessive friction, pressure loss, airflow problems, poor preparation and incorrect equipment set-up as potential causes. Relate observations during installation to the route information and preparation checks rather than assuming that one adjustment will resolve every problem. Consider how bends, cable characteristics and duct condition can interact to limit progress. Apply the corrective techniques covered during training in a safe, methodical manner, following the trainer’s instructions and manufacturer guidance. Review the installation arrangement before continuing, with particular attention to preventing avoidable cable damage.
Network practice, identification and installation records
Review cable and network identification, labelling and the information needed to document completed work. Record air tests and installation details so the activity can be traced and reviewed. Relate the work to the manufacturer guidance and relevant highway-related considerations included in the syllabus, including sub-base requirements. Keep documentation consistent with the route information and the practical work undertaken, and recognise its role in communicating installation issues.
Practical exercises, review and assessment preparation
Bring the modules together through equipment preparation, duct and sub-duct work, air testing and controlled blowing exercises. Review installation problems, completed records and safe working practices before undertaking the course’s practical and knowledge-based assessment activities.
On successful completion of the course and required assessments, delegates achieve the Open Awards Level 3 Award in Optical Fibre and Cable Blowing (RQF), qualification number 603/7807/4. The award recognises the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare duct routes, select and set up blowing equipment, install blown fibre and cable, and document completed work.
Assessment is completed through Cloud Assess during the two-day course and includes practical activities and knowledge-based assessment. Delegates must demonstrate the required skills and understanding in equipment set-up, duct preparation, route planning, installation control, safe working and documentation. Successful completion depends on meeting the assessment requirements, rather than attendance alone.
Assessment and qualification
Who should attend
This air blown fibre installation course welcomes new entrants, career changers and experienced engineers developing or refreshing their blowing skills. It combines practical equipment operation with route preparation, safe working, installation control and documentation for telecommunications and broadband network projects.
Suitable for:
New entrants and career changers looking to develop practical skills for work in fibre deployment, cable installation or telecommunications network construction.
Existing fibre optic installers who want to add air-assisted installation methods to their skills and understand the factors affecting controlled blowing performance.
Telecommunications engineers working on FTTP and broadband networks where fibre units or cables are installed through compatible duct infrastructure.
Network build technicians involved in microduct and sub-duct preparation, connection, termination and route checks before fibre installation begins.
Underground installation contractors who need to connect route planning, duct condition and access arrangements with practical blowing equipment operation.
Engineers responsible for installation quality who want to identify restrictions, pressure loss, excessive friction and other causes of unsuccessful blowing.
Supervisors and corporate teams seeking consistent approaches to preparation, compressed-air safety, installation control, labelling and completed work records.
Choose this course for air-assisted fibre installation. For fibre preparation, fusion splicing and optical testing, explore separate installation and splicing training. Discuss your intended work with Fibre Optics Training before selecting a course. Consider the practical tasks and experience your next project will require.
Entry requirements
No previous fibre optic experience or safety card is required. The course welcomes new entrants and career changers, alongside existing installers developing practical skills in air-assisted installation.
The Open Awards qualification is for learners aged 18 or over at registration. Learners should have a good standard of English and maths to follow technical instructions, work with measurements and complete assessment activities.
Be ready to participate in classroom learning, hands-on exercises and assessment through Cloud Assess during the course. Follow the trainer’s safety instructions and equipment guidance throughout duct preparation, blowing and troubleshooting activities.
Delegates must bring their own PPE. Contact Fibre Optics Training before attending to confirm the items needed. Discuss any learning, accessibility or other support needs before booking so the team can consider the practical activities with you.
Why train with Fibre Optics Training?
4 Great Reasons to Train With Us
1. Connect theory with practical installation
Explore how duct condition, cable characteristics, route layout and equipment set-up influence installation performance. Connect technical instruction with hands-on activities so you can understand the reasons behind the preparation checks, recognise problems during blowing and approach practical work in a controlled, methodical way.
2. Build confidence through hands-on training
Practise at the Fibre Optics Training centre in Crewe using the blowing equipment and duct infrastructure provided for the course. Work through preparation, connections, air testing and installation activities that develop your understanding of the sequence, with opportunities to review common problems and completed records.
3. Demonstrate your knowledge and practical skills
Work towards the Open Awards Level 3 Award in Optical Fibre and Cable Blowing (RQF) through practical and knowledge-based assessment completed using Cloud Assess during the course. Demonstrate your understanding of route preparation, equipment operation, safe installation and documentation, gaining a recognised qualification on successful completion of the required assessments.
4. Develop a methodical approach to troubleshooting
Learn to connect installation symptoms with possible causes, including restrictions, friction, pressure loss, airflow problems and equipment preparation. A structured approach helps you review the route and installation arrangement, apply the corrective techniques taught and keep clear records of the work and issues identified. Review each activity against the route information and the planned installation.
Choosing the right air blown fibre training
Is this the right course for my experience level?
Choose this course if you want practical training in air-assisted fibre installation, from duct preparation and equipment set-up to controlled blowing and troubleshooting. It is suitable for new entrants as well as existing engineers expanding their skills. Compare the syllabus with your intended duties and discuss your experience with Fibre Optics Training before selecting a date.
When should I choose installation and splicing training?
This course focuses on installing fibre through prepared duct infrastructure using blowing methods. Choose Fibre Optic Installation and Splicing if your main goal is cable preparation, fusion splicing, termination and optical testing. These courses address complementary tasks; select training around the responsibilities you expect to undertake rather than assuming one course covers every stage.
What is the difference between attending and completing the course?
Attending gives you opportunities to develop your knowledge and practical skills. Successful completion requires meeting the programme’s assessment requirements. Assessment is completed through Cloud Assess during the course. Successful delegates achieve the Open Awards Level 3 Award in Optical Fibre and Cable Blowing (RQF), qualification number 603/7807/4.
Can I discuss the training before deciding?
Contact Fibre Optics Training to discuss your experience, intended work and any support needs before booking. Training takes place in Crewe, Cheshire. If your employer uses a particular blowing system, explain the equipment and tasks involved so the team can clarify how the course syllabus relates to your requirements and whether you need additional equipment-specific instruction.
How should employers plan the next training step?
Start with the tasks your delegates will undertake, their current experience and the requirements of your project. Compare air-assisted installation with separate splicing, optical testing and outside plant responsibilities. Discuss the Level 3 award and practical arrangements with Fibre Optics Training before confirming that this programme meets your organisation’s training needs.
Career progression
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Related training and equipment
Extend your practical skills
Fibre Optic Installation and Splicing — Adds fibre preparation, fusion splicing, termination and optical testing to air-assisted cable installation.
Advanced OTDR Testing and Fault Finding — Extends optical measurement and fault investigation skills; check its experience and entry requirements.
Explore relevant equipment
Discuss the blowing equipment, compressor and duct systems used during the course with Fibre Optics Training. Explain any equipment-specific requirements before booking. Use the relevant manufacturer guidance when selecting compatible cable, duct and equipment arrangements for workplace installations.
Visit Fibre Optics Training and plan your stay
Contact Fibre Optics Training to discuss the course and learner support. See travel and accommodation information for attending our Crewe centre.
Training for your team
Explore corporate training and discuss your team’s experience, installation tasks and equipment requirements with Fibre Optics Training.
Air blown fibre training FAQs
1. What does air blown fibre training cover?
Air blown fibre training covers the preparation and installation methods used to place compatible fibre units and fibre optic cables through duct systems using controlled compressed air. You explore route information, duct condition, equipment set-up, airflow requirements and installation control. Practical activities connect these topics with air testing, cable handling and troubleshooting. The course also addresses safe working, identification and the records needed to document installation work.
2. Does the course cover fibre units and fibre optic cables?
Yes. Delegates practise blowing both fibre units and fibre optic cables during the course. Training covers blown fibre tubing, microducts and sub-duct systems, with attention to the different characteristics of each installation arrangement. You connect cable-to-duct compatibility, route preparation and equipment set-up with controlled practical installation. Fibre units and cables require suitable equipment and manufacturer guidance; tell Fibre Optics Training about any particular workplace system before booking.
3. Do I need previous fibre optic experience?
No previous fibre optic experience or safety card is required. The course welcomes new entrants and experienced installers developing their blowing skills. For the Open Awards qualification, learners must be aged 18 or over at registration and should have a good standard of English and maths. Be ready for practical work and assessment through Cloud Assess. Contact Fibre Optics Training before booking to discuss any learning or accessibility support needs.
4. Will I practise using fibre blowing equipment?
Yes. The programme combines technical instruction with practical activities using blowing equipment. You work through equipment preparation, cable loading, duct and sub-duct preparation, air testing and controlled installation. The syllabus includes compressor selection, airflow requirements and the factors affecting blowing performance. These activities develop your understanding of the installation process. Ask Fibre Optics Training about the equipment used if your employer needs training related to a particular machine or system.
5. What will I learn about microducts and route preparation?
Training covers blown fibre tubing, microducts and sub-duct systems, including preparation, connection, termination and air pressure testing. You consider route length, bends, access points and duct condition when planning installation. The aim is to connect preparation checks with the performance of the blowing operation, including problems caused by leaks or restrictions. The syllabus also includes interpreting route drawings and recording air-test information as part of a methodical installation process.
6. Does the course cover compressed-air safety and PPE?
Yes. Safe working with compressed-air equipment is included, alongside fibre handling and the installation activities taught during the course. Delegates must bring their own PPE and follow the trainer’s instructions and relevant equipment guidance during preparation, operation and troubleshooting. Contact Fibre Optics Training before attending to confirm the PPE items needed. Discuss any support needs in advance so the team can consider the practical activities and arrangements with you.
7. Will I learn to troubleshoot unsuccessful blowing attempts?
Yes. You explore common causes of poor blowing performance, including duct restrictions, excessive friction, pressure loss, airflow problems and incorrect equipment set-up. Training relates these symptoms to route condition, bends, cable characteristics and preparation so that corrective action follows a methodical review. The syllabus also includes appropriate lubrication and protecting cable during installation. Practical troubleshooting develops the techniques covered by the course rather than promising a fixed installation distance or result.
8. How is the course assessed and what certificate will I receive?
Assessment is completed through Cloud Assess during the course, using practical activities and knowledge-based assessment to demonstrate the required skills and understanding. Successful delegates achieve the Open Awards Level 3 Award in Optical Fibre and Cable Blowing (RQF), qualification number 603/7807/4. Assessment addresses route planning, duct preparation, equipment set-up, safe blowing, installation control and documentation. Attendance alone does not lead to the award; you must successfully meet the qualification’s assessment requirements.
9. How long does the course last, where is it held and what does it cost?
The course lasts two days and costs £650 plus VAT, with training at the Fibre Optics Training centre in Crewe, Cheshire. Technical instruction is combined with practical installation activities. Check the available dates and current booking price before arranging attendance, and use the travel and accommodation information when planning your visit. Contact the training team if you need to discuss accessibility, learner support or the practical arrangements before booking.
10. How can an employer choose training for a team?
Start by identifying the installation tasks your delegates will undertake and their existing experience. Share your duct systems, fibre products, blowing equipment and intended work with Fibre Optics Training so the team can clarify how the syllabus matches your needs. Discuss group availability and booking arrangements before committing places. Where the role also involves splicing, optical testing or wider outside plant work, compare the separate courses and their entry requirements.