What is the proper way to handle fiber after it has been spliced?

The proper way to handle fiber after it has been spliced is to hold the heat-shrink protective sleeve that has a steel bar inside. This approach ensures that the fragile fiber optics themselves are not subjected to stress or damage, which could occur if the glass fiber is bent, twisted, or otherwise mishandled.

The heat-shrink sleeve serves two crucial roles: it protects the splice from environmental factors such as moisture and debris, and the steel bar within provides structural support to prevent excess movement or strain on the fiber. By grasping the sleeve rather than the fiber itself, technicians minimize the risk of breakage and maintain the integrity of the splice, ensuring optimal performance of the fiber optic system.

Handling the fiber directly can lead to accidental damage, while avoiding physical contact entirely may not always be practical, especially during installation and testing. Using gloves is beneficial for hygiene and handling, but it does not provide the necessary structural support that the heat-shrink sleeve does. Thus, choosing to hold the heat-shrink protective sleeve is the most effective and correct method of handling spliced fiber.