Verizon has introduced an innovative program to safeguard its extensive fiber infrastructure from accidental cuts during construction and excavation activities. Each year, thousands of fiber lines are damaged, leading to significant connectivity disruptions for customers. To address this, Verizon is deploying proprietary technology that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to proactively identify and prevent potential fiber damage. This marks an industry first in leveraging advanced tech to reduce the risks associated with digging activities.
Verizon’s AI-driven solution processes over ten million 811 dig requests annually, identifying high-risk excavations based on historical data, current activity at the site, and the track record of the excavator involved.
By taking preventive measures, such as enhancing communication with excavators, Verizon aims to significantly reduce the number of fiber cuts each year. Integrated with Verizon’s 811 system, this initiative has the potential to prevent hundreds of fiber cuts annually, maintaining uninterrupted connectivity for customers and minimizing costly repairs.
- AI Deployment: Verizon uses AI and machine learning to assess over 10 million dig requests annually for potential fiber cut risks. Proactive Prevention: The system identifies high-risk excavations and implements preventive measures to protect underground fiber.
- Impact: The initiative could prevent hundreds of fiber cuts annually, reducing connectivity disruptions.
- National Call Before You Dig Day: Verizon emphasizes the importance of calling 811 before any digging project to avoid damaging underground utilities.