What should you always do before grounding a line?

Before grounding a line, it is crucial to follow the protocol of identifying, isolating, testing, and then grounding. This process ensures that all necessary safety measures are in place to protect workers from electrical hazards.

Identifying refers to confirming the line you are working on and understanding its status within the electrical system. Isolation means disconnecting the line from its power source, making it safe to work on. Testing the line verifies that there is no voltage present and confirms that the line is indeed de-energized. Only after these steps can you safely ground the line to prevent any accidental re-energization and to safeguard against electrical shocks or injuries.

This systematic approach is a best practice in electrical work and ensures the safety of linemen and others working in proximity to the equipment. Each step is essential in creating a safe working environment, highlighting the importance of thorough procedures in electrical safety.