What should operators do to maintain safety while working?

Maintaining safety while working, particularly in environments such as substations, relies heavily on effective communication and the use of standardized signals. Utilizing hand signals and maintaining communication among team members ensures that everyone is aware of each other's actions and intentions, reducing the risk of accidents. Clear communication is essential in high-risk environments where distractions or lack of awareness can lead to dangerous situations.

Hand signals serve as a visual method of conveying messages, especially in noisy environments where verbal communication might be challenging. By establishing a common understanding of these signals, operators can coordinate their activities more effectively, preventing misunderstandings that could lead to injuries.

The other options do not prioritize safety. Working quickly without breaks may lead to fatigue and errors, altering equipment settings can result in malfunctions or unsafe conditions, and assuming that everyone is aware of one another can create gaps in situational awareness that increase the potential for accidents. Overall, maintaining communication and using hand signals create a safer working environment for everyone involved.