Why is burying junk pieces of wire in trenches forbidden for line personnel?

Burying junk pieces of wire in trenches is specifically forbidden for line personnel primarily because it leaves a false indication of cable location. This can create significant safety hazards for future excavation or maintenance work. If other workers or contractors were to dig in the area, they may inadvertently damage the buried wires, leading to electrical hazards or outages. Accurate knowledge of buried cables is critical for ensuring safe operations, especially in cases where heavy machinery is involved.

While the other options touch on different concerns like soil damage, safety regulations, and costs, the most pertinent issue related to operational safety and effectiveness in the field is the potential confusion and risks associated with misidentifying cable locations. Accurate records of cable layouts are essential to prevent accidents, ensure compliance with safety standards, and protect both personnel and infrastructure during ongoing maintenance or excavation activities.