How do utilities generally utilize handholes?

Utilities commonly utilize handholes as splicing boxes on secondary runs. Handholes are essentially underground access points designed to provide entry to utility infrastructure. In the context of splicing, they serve a critical function, allowing technicians to easily access and connect cables or wires that carry electricity or telecommunications signals. This splicing capability is essential for maintaining the integrity of secondary runs, which are usually involved in distributing power to residential and commercial areas.

While maintenance access points and other functions can also be part of handhole usage, the primary design and function are geared towards facilitating these splicing connections. The other choices, such as monitoring power consumption or cable storage, do not align with the principal role that handholes serve in the infrastructure of utilities. Hence, the focus on their splicing capabilities is what makes this answer the most accurate representation of how utilities typically use handholes.