Which of the following practices is important to prevent interference during backfill operations?

Routing wiring carefully is essential during backfill operations to prevent interference with other systems and ensure the integrity of the installation. Proper routing involves strategically placing wires to minimize the risk of physical damage from heavy machinery or shifting soil. It also helps avoid electromagnetic interference from other buried utilities or systems that can disrupt signal transmission and functionality.

In the context of backfill, if wiring is not routed with care, it can become kinked, pinched, or exposed to undue stress, leading to potential failures. Properly organized wiring allows for better access and maintenance in the future, facilitating efficient inspections and repairs.

The other choices, while they may seem relevant, do not directly address the core issue of preventing interference during backfill. For instance, using thinner wires might not provide the necessary strength or signal integrity, while avoiding backfill operations altogether is typically impractical for installation processes. Non-metallic connectors do have their place, particularly in reducing corrosion or avoiding ground loops, but they do not inherently prevent interference that can arise from improperly routed wiring. Thus, careful routing emerges as the most effective and practical approach to mitigating interference risks in this scenario.