What precautions should be taken when working with energized equipment?

When working with energized equipment, it is crucial to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure that tools are insulated. This practice is vital because energized equipment poses serious electrical hazards, including the risk of shock or arc flash.

Using insulated tools helps prevent electrical current from flowing into the user if they accidentally make contact with an energized part. Appropriate PPE, such as rubber gloves, face shields, and flame-resistant clothing, protects the worker from potential injuries caused by electrical arcs or burns. These safety measures are designed to minimize the risk of injury and ensure that the worker can perform their tasks as safely as possible.

Regular clothing does not provide adequate protection and could become a conduit for electrical energy if a fault occurs. While working in well-lit areas is important for general safety, it does not mitigate the inherent dangers of working with energized equipment. Avoiding contact with the equipment might seem cautious, but in a practical sense, workers often need to interact with electrical systems directly, making the use of protective measures essential.