When untangling energized conductors with hot tie sticks, should you cut the tie as close as possible to eliminate the possibility of contacting a different potential?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not applicable
• D. It depends

Answer: (A)

When untangling energized conductors with hot tie sticks, the aim is to minimize any conductive path that could bridge different potentials. Cutting the tie as close to the conductor as possible leaves the remaining tail very short, so it’s unlikely to contact another conductor or ground and create a short or arc. A longer tail can move, whip, or be snagged and end up touching a different voltage, which is exactly what you want to avoid. Using the hot stick to cut right at the base and securing or removing the tail helps keep the system safer by preventing unintended connections.