What is the primary procedure before working on or near electrical equipment?

The primary procedure before working on or near electrical equipment involves locking out and verifying that the equipment is de-energized. This is crucial for ensuring safety, as it prevents accidental startup or energization while a technician is working on the equipment.

Lockout procedures involve physically isolating the energy source, typically by using lockout/tagout (LOTO) devices that prevent the operation of machinery or equipment. After securing the lockout, it’s essential to verify that the equipment is indeed de-energized, which involves testing with appropriate tools to ensure that there is no voltage present. This two-step process minimizes risks and ensures the safety of personnel who are working near or on the electrical equipment.

Simply disabling power does not guarantee that all stored energy has been eliminated, nor does disconnecting ground provide a complete safety measure, as there could still be other sources of energy present. Assessing voltage is important but is not a standalone safety procedure; it should come after the proper lockout and verification processes are completed. Therefore, the focus on both locking out and verifying status establishes a comprehensive safety framework.