What is a major factor that reduces the reliability of underground systems?

Dig-ins are a significant factor that reduces the reliability of underground systems. When excavation activities inadvertently damage underground utilities, it can lead to service interruptions, safety hazards, and additional repair costs. This occurs often with cable and piping systems, where even minor digging can sever or compromise essential lines.

In many regions, awareness programs and utility marking services exist to minimize the occurrences of dig-ins. However, despite these measures, human error or lack of knowledge about buried utility locations can result in unintentional damage. Consequently, dig-ins not only pose immediate risks to infrastructure reliability but can also lead to long-term repercussions for utility companies and their customers.

While the other factors listed, such as extreme weather, aging infrastructure, and high humidity, can also impact underground systems, they generally do not have the same immediate and controllable risk as dig-ins do. Dig-ins directly impede the operation of utilities, making them a primary concern for maintaining system reliability.