What safety measure should you take before working on electrical circuits?

• A. Ensure the power is on
• B. Wear insulated gloves only
• C. Turn off the power and verify it is de-energized
• D. Use a multimeter on a low setting

Answer: (C)

Before working on electrical circuits, the most critical safety measure is to turn off the power and verify that it is de-energized. This step is essential because it reduces the risk of electric shock or injury, which can be fatal. Even if the power is turned off at the breaker, it's necessary to confirm that there is no voltage present in the circuit before beginning any work. This verification can be done using a multimeter or a non-contact voltage tester, ensuring that the circuit is safe to work on.

Wearing insulated gloves can offer some level of protection, but they should not be relied upon as the sole safety measure. It's also important to not attempt any work with the power still on, as this greatly increases the danger of electric shock. Proper procedure includes always verifying that the circuit is de-energized before cutting wires or making any repairs, which is why this step is a fundamental aspect of electrical safety.