Before contacting any conductors after de-energizing a line on a wooden pole, what must be done to ensure safety?

• A. Visually inspect the line
• B. De-energize and test the line
• C. Apply insulating tape
• D. Call the supervisor

Answer: (B)

Verifying zero energy before touching any cables is the essential safety step. Even after you open or de-energize a line, stored or induced voltage from capacitive coupling with nearby conductors can linger. That means you can’t rely on appearance or the act of de-energizing alone—you must actually test the line with an approved voltage tester to confirm there is no voltage present. This verification, done with proper equipment and technique, ensures you can approach or contact the conductors with real safety.

Visual checks don’t prove it’s safe because voltage can exist even when the line looks inactive. Applying insulating tape doesn’t remove voltage or confirm that it’s zero. Calling the supervisor is part of the procedure and communication practice, but it isn’t the step that confirms the line is safe to work on.