Direct-burial fiber cable eliminates the need for continuous conduit runs and can be faster and more cost-effective on long, open runs. But because the cable sits in soil exposed to moisture, load, rodents and excavation risk, planning and execution must be careful. 01 This best practices procedure provides general information for the installation of fiber optic cables in direct buried applications. The methods described are intended for guideline use only, as it is impossible to cover all the various conditions that may arise during an installation. ble may extend of the reel and beco ssible safety hazard and/or damaging the cable. This guide explains the common. Recommendation ITU-T L. First, in order to demonstrate sufficient performance of an. 1. A working familiarity with buried cable requirements.