What should be done before working on an electrical circuit?

Before beginning work on an electrical circuit, it is crucial to de-energize the circuit and then verify that it is indeed de-energized using a meter. This practice is essential for ensuring safety, as working on a live circuit poses significant risks, including electrical shock or injury.

De-energizing the circuit eliminates the hazard of accidental contact with live components while performing repairs or maintenance. Simply turning off a switch or circuit breaker is not enough, as there may still be voltage present due to backfeed or other factors. Therefore, using a meter to verify that no voltage is present adds an additional layer of safety, ensuring that the circuit is truly safe to work on. This step is a fundamental practice in electrical work to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

The other options, while related to working with electrical circuits, do not prioritize safety in the same way. Testing with a multimeter can be beneficial, but it should only be done after de-energizing the circuit. Turning on the circuit to check if it functions contradicts the necessary safety protocols, as it may place the worker in danger. Wearing insulated gloves is a protective measure, yet it should not replace the critical step of verifying that the circuit is de-energ