What is a critical safety practice when working with electricity?

Ensuring the power is turned off before starting work is a fundamental safety practice when working with electricity. This practice is critical because it significantly reduces the risk of electric shock, which can occur if a person inadvertently contacts live electrical components. By guaranteeing that the power is shut off, workers can safely inspect, repair, or maintain electrical systems without the imminent threat of energization.

Additionally, turning off the power allows for the implementation of lockout/tagout procedures, which further increases protection by maintaining de-energized status until work is completed and tools are removed. This practice is essential not only for personal safety but also for the safety of others in the vicinity, ensuring that no one else accidentally re-energizes the system while someone is working on it.