What is required before performing work on deenergized equipment according to electrical safety regulations?

Before performing work on deenergized equipment, it is essential to conduct a full testing of circuit elements for the absence of voltage. This step ensures that all components of the electrical circuit are indeed deenergized and free from potential electric shock hazards. Simply relying on visual inspections alone may not be sufficient, as some equipment can appear deenergized while still having live components due to residual or phantom voltage.

Testing for absence of voltage typically requires the use of appropriate and calibrated voltage testing equipment. This practice aligns with safety standards that aim to protect workers from electrical accidents. By confirming the absence of voltage, individuals can safely proceed to perform maintenance or repairs without the risk of unexpected energization of equipment, thereby ensuring a safer working environment.

Other options, while they may involve elements of safety and procedure, do not encompass the critical step of verifying voltage absence through testing, which is a fundamental requirement in electrical safety protocols.