Underwater high power cables are a mature technology. The operators would have equipment distributed across the line to monitor the cable. Any shorts or opens would be detected and breakers would be used disconnect the section of the cable.
Labor unions are the reason why we have paid time off and 40 hour work weeks in the US. Unions in the US have a lot more negative press compared to other unions in the developed world. Big business has spent decades convincing Americans that unions are bad because for large corporations, they can make more money by reducing benefits and pay for their workers.
I would say in general, unions in Europe are viewed in a much more positive light. Collective bargaining allows for workers from blue collar to white collar work receive their fair share from the company.
I feel so confused by the large negative reaction to this thread.
The unions in other countries have done great things for workers. In Germany, most employed individuals get 6 weeks of vacation and 35 to 40 hour a week contracts.
People are scared they're salary is going to go down the hole for some reason. A tech union can exist with pay scales that match current peoples compensation.
Articles like this really put into perspective how strong the American perspective is here.
From my experience, this is quite common in Europe. I can't think of a cafe that I have been to that I ever felt rushed. I have always needed to call the server over to get my check to leave.
The cafes are where people relax and people watch. No need to rush.