Red Seal Powerline Technician Practice Exam

What should technicians do before performing maintenance on power lines?

1. Ensure proper training has been received

2. Notify customers of power outages

3. De-energize the equipment whenever possible

4. Inspect the equipment after maintenance

The correct answer is: De-energize the equipment whenever possible

Before performing maintenance on power lines, de-energizing the equipment whenever possible is critical to ensuring the safety of technicians. De-energizing eliminates the risk of electric shock or electrocution, which is a primary concern when working with electrical infrastructure. By removing any electrical potential from the equipment, technicians can safely perform their tasks without the immediate risk posed by live wires or energized circuits. Additionally, de-energizing allows for a more thorough inspection of the equipment and provides an opportunity to detect any potential faults or issues that could pose safety risks during operation. Supporting this safety measure, technicians are also expected to utilize proper lockout/tagout procedures to secure the system and prevent accidental re-energization while maintenance work is being carried out. While proper training and notifying customers of power outages are important aspects of a technician’s responsibilities, the most critical step to maintaining safety right before engaging in maintenance work is ensuring that the equipment is de-energized. Thus, this option is prioritized in industry guidelines and safety protocols.