All patch cables (from patch panel to switch in same two post rack, not to floor) cut by LV workers during a renovation project that required moving the network rack. Is this normal?

The patch paneling is at the top of the two post rack in which we have two 48 port switches below with patch between. I understand cutting the cabling to the rack from the floor. I do not understand cutting all the patch from the panels to the switches.

Their current explanation is that it was so the could leave the cable ends in the switch to prevent dust from getting in during renovation. I call BS. We've done this before and can simply unplug the cables if you need to remove the switches (which they were removed anyway after cutting the cables). If you're going to remove the switches you literally have any number of ways to prevent dust during reno getting in them.

I'm of the opinion someone was trying to save a headache while removing the switches and simply cut them all and now they're backpedaling.