What should workers do before working on de-energized equipment?

Before working on de-energized equipment, it is crucial for workers to always disconnect all energy sources. This step is fundamental in ensuring the safety of personnel who will be interacting with the equipment. Disconnecting all energy sources guarantees that there is no potential electrical energy that could inadvertently energize the equipment during maintenance or repair activities. This action minimizes the risk of electric shock, burns, or other potential injuries associated with accidental re-energization.

While checking voltage levels, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and securing the area are all important safety practices, they do not replace the necessity of disconnecting energy sources as the primary safety measure. Each of these practices is part of a comprehensive safety protocol, but the first line of defense against electrical hazards is ensuring that all energy sources are effectively disconnected before starting any work on the equipment.