In recent weeks, weather warnings have followed one another, putting society’s critical communications infrastructure and our technicians to the test. Storms Anna and Johannes brought extreme weather conditions and a high volume of fault reports in the areas where we ensure the network remains operational. Here, we offer an insight into what a day on call can look like for two of our technicians when conditions in the field are demanding.
Snowstorm, Epiphany Eve and a damaged cable
In the middle of a snowstorm on Epiphany Eve, a disruption occurred when water and wastewater construction work on one of the islands in the Gothenburg archipelago resulted in a damaged fibre cable. The cable supplied a large number of subscribers on the island, and the consequences could have been significant had the fault not been addressed quickly.
Rapid response despite extreme conditions
Our on call technicians, with extensive expertise and long experience of the networks they work with daily, acted immediately. They began preparing materials and equipment while awaiting approval from the customer to travel to the island. As there is no regular car ferry service to this particular island, special transport was arranged, and the vehicle was packed with everything required to handle both the repair and any unforeseen circumstances.
Working in the archipelago during cold weather and snowfall requires forward planning. Proper personal equipment is essential if the work is prolonged or if technicians need to remain on the island while awaiting transport.
Safety is the highest priority
The safety of our technicians in the field is always the top priority. They are equipped with personal alarms connected to both our own operations centre and the national emergency services, enabling them to raise an alert if needed. Warm clothing, appropriate footwear and the right tools are a given and critical to safe working conditions.
Heating in the vehicle or in temporary shelters set up at the worksite provides both light and protection from the snowfall. Heating mats were also prepared to keep the work area clear of snow and prevent the ground from freezing, ensuring safe and efficient working conditions.
The result a stable connection
Thanks to the effort on site, our technicians were able to splice the fibre cables and repair the fault. The alternative would have been to install an entirely new fibre connection between the islands, a solution that would have been significantly more costly and resulted in a longer outage for subscribers.
We deliver in all conditions
The image shows our technicians on the ferry, travelling out in the snowstorm to restore connectivity. It is a clear example of what we do every day. We are there when it matters most, in all conditions, around the clock, to ensure that society continues to function.
