What common issue might arise when cutting underground residential distribution (URD) cables?

Cable misidentification is a common issue that can arise when working with underground residential distribution (URD) cables. This problem often occurs because URD cables can be buried deep underground and may not be clearly marked, leading to confusion about which cables are which during maintenance or repair work. Misidentification can result in cutting the wrong cable, which can disrupt service for customers, create safety hazards, and lead to costly mistakes.

It is crucial for technicians to implement proper identification techniques before excavation or repair work begins. This may involve consulting utility maps or using cable locators to accurately determine the location of the different cables before proceeding. Understanding the layout of underground systems is essential for ensuring safe and effective operations.

The other options address potential issues that may not be as directly linked to the cutting of URD cables specifically. Overheating of wires is generally a concern with electrical load problems or poor connections, while lack of proper tools impacts efficiency and safety in general; and incorrect voltage readings would relate more to testing and troubleshooting rather than the physical task of cutting cables. Thus, recognizing the importance of proper cable identification is a key takeaway regarding the challenges posed by URD cables.