What is a safety concern associated with installing aerial fiber-optic cable between poles?

The correct answer highlights the safety concern related to static electricity discharging through conductors. When installing aerial fiber-optic cable, workers may be exposed to electrical components and structures that could be affected by nearby electrical conductors. Static electricity can accumulate on the cable or other conductive materials, and if not properly managed, it can lead to discharges that might result in electric shocks, equipment damage, or even ignitions in certain environments.

Addressing the issue of static electricity is vital because it involves the safety of the workers handling the installation, as well as maintaining the integrity of the systems being worked on. Safety protocols and grounding practices are often implemented to mitigate this risk.

Other options present valid concerns associated with aerial installations, but they do not resonate with the specific electrical hazard posed by static electricity. Wind can indeed cause cable damage, animal interference can disrupt installations, and structural integrity of poles is essential to maintain; however, the critical aspect surrounding static electricity makes the answer particularly significant during fiber-optic cable installation.