Verizon has revealed it's using artificial intelligence (AI) to protect and prevent damage to its fiber infrastructure.

In an announcement, the carrier acknowledged the issue of damage caused to its fiber infrastructure and how accidental cuts can cause its network to suffer.

To address potential incidents, the telco is using AI and machine learning (ML) to sort through more than 10 million 811 dig requests each year to identify high-risk excavations.

According to Verizon, this is done by "factoring in historical and current activity at the location as well as the past performance of the excavator on site," allowing it to take steps for prevention such as additional communication with the excavator to reduce the chance they may impact underground fiber. 

Verizon claims that its AI and ML solutions, which are integrated with its 811 system, has the potential to reduce up to several hundred fiber cuts each year.

“We are using artificial intelligence and machine learning to be proactive, rather than reactive, keeping our customers connected and preventing accidents that result in costly repairs,” said Julie Slattery, senior VP of core engineering and operations at Verizon.

“It’s also vital that anyone who plans to dig call 811, the national call-before-you-dig phone number before any project, large or small. It’s the easiest step toward reducing the chance of damaging underground fiber and helping to keep our customers and first responders connected.”

In its post online this week, Verizon noted that 811 should be dialed prior to any digging to avoid unintentionally damaging utility lines.

Across the US, Verizon owns and operates more than one million miles of fiber.