What is considered a common safety precaution when working with electrical equipment?

When working with electrical equipment, one of the most crucial safety precautions is to always disconnect power before servicing. This step is essential because it significantly reduces the risk of electric shock or electrocution while performing repairs or maintenance. By ensuring that the power supply is completely turned off, technicians can safely handle wiring and components without the fear of unexpected energy surges.

Disconnecting the power also allows for a thorough inspection and work on electrical components without the concern of live circuits. This practice aligns with industry safety standards, emphasizing that safety protocols, such as powering down equipment before maintenance, are vital for worker protection and prevention of accidents. Without this precaution, even trained individuals can find themselves in dangerous situations.

Other safety measures, like wearing safety goggles, ensuring good lighting, or using gloves, while important, do not have the same immediate impact on preventing electrical accidents as disconnecting the power does. Hence, disconnecting power is widely recognized as a fundamental protocol in electrical maintenance work.