Openreach PIA S005 Overhead Surveying

This Openreach PIA S5 course combines theory with practical pole surveying, developing the asset identification, route assessment and reporting skills needed to support Physical Infrastructure Access network planning.

Understanding the overhead network and PIA surveying

Explore how existing Openreach overhead infrastructure is surveyed for Physical Infrastructure Access projects and how the findings support network planning. Identify the relationship between poles, spans, overhead assets and the proposed route, distinguishing observations made during a survey from decisions that require further design work. Discuss the scope of S5 / S005 accreditation and the importance of recording information accurately. Work through overhead network examples to understand what the surveyor must identify, assess and report before the information is used for planning subsequent PIA installation activities.

Survey preparation and safe working

Prepare for practical overhead surveying by reviewing the task, existing information and the working environment. Apply the safety instructions provided during training, recognise the limits of your existing safety accreditation and organise the survey so observations can be made and recorded safely.

Openreach and Communication Provider asset identification

Identify existing Openreach overhead telecommunications assets and distinguish them from infrastructure owned by other Communication Providers. Record the relevant asset information clearly, linking observations to the route being surveyed and recognising why asset ownership matters when preparing information for proposed PIA work.

Pole types, classifications and infrastructure condition

Recognise common pole types, including Light, Medium, Stout and Hollow poles, and consider the relevant classifications used when assessing overhead infrastructure. Relate the recorded pole information to the proposed work and identify visible conditions that need to be reported. Practical examples help you distinguish the identification of an asset from the assessment of its suitability, and communicate observations without assuming that a survey finding alone authorises installation.

Available pole space and proposed assets

Assess the space available on a pole by considering existing assets and the information needed for proposed equipment. Record the arrangements observed and identify constraints that may influence subsequent planning decisions. Work through practical survey examples to develop a consistent approach to observation, avoiding assumptions about usable space. Explain how accurate descriptions of the existing pole arrangement help planners evaluate the proposed route and identify locations that need further consideration.

Overhead routes, spans and survey constraints

Survey poles, spans and the wider overhead route to identify conditions that may affect planned PIA work. Consider the relationship between the mapped route and the infrastructure encountered on site, recording constraints, visible defects and relevant observations. Distinguish clear findings from information that requires further checking. Practical examples develop your ability to describe where an issue occurs, which part of the route it affects and why the information needs to be included in the survey record.

DILOR and network adjustment requirements

Explore DILOR requirements in the context of overhead route surveying and recognise where network adjustments may need consideration. Relate these requirements to the existing infrastructure and proposed work, recording relevant observations so the planning team has clear information to review.

Openreach portal mapping and site information

Interpret relevant information displayed within Openreach portal maps and use it to understand the overhead assets and route before surveying. Compare the mapped records with the infrastructure observed on site, identifying differences that need to be recorded or checked. Practise linking asset information to the correct location and keeping a clear distinction between existing records and your own observations. Discuss how incomplete or inconsistent information can affect the reliability of a survey, and prepare notes that explain what was found, what remains uncertain and which details require further review before planning proceeds.

A1024 survey records and reporting

Complete the required A1024 survey information using the observations gathered from the overhead route. Record pole, span and asset details accurately, together with relevant constraints, defects and locations where network adjustments may need consideration. Work through examples to understand how individual observations form a coherent survey record and how unclear wording can lead to misunderstandings during planning. Check that descriptions agree with the infrastructure surveyed and the mapping information used. Review the completed information for omissions and inconsistencies, ensuring another person can understand the findings and identify the route conditions that may affect proposed PIA work.

Survey review and information for network planning

Review survey information as a record of the overhead infrastructure assessed and the issues requiring attention. Consider how planners and project teams use asset details, pole-space observations, route constraints and recorded defects when evaluating proposed work. Practise presenting findings clearly and distinguishing confirmed observations from points requiring further investigation. The emphasis is on producing reliable information that supports network design and installation planning, while recognising the limits of the surveying task and the separate responsibilities involved in approving subsequent work.

Practical surveying exercises and assessment

Bring the topics together through practical overhead surveying exercises, identifying assets, assessing pole space and recording route conditions. Complete survey information, review your findings and prepare for the required theory and practical assessments that demonstrate competence for Openreach PIA S5 accreditation.