Which statement best describes the general status of overhead wires?

Which statement best describes the general status of overhead wires?

• A. They are considered energized at all times unless proven de-energized and grounded
• B. They are never energized during maintenance
• C. They can be touched when wearing gloves
• D. They are always de-energized

Answer: (A)

Overhead wires carry high voltages and can pose a fatal shock risk, so the safe approach is to treat them as energized at all times unless a formal verification proves they are de-energized and properly grounded. This verification follows established procedures like lockout/tagout and zero-voltage testing to ensure there’s no stored or induced energy and to provide a safe working condition. Grounding helps discharge any residual energy and confirms the circuit is safe before maintenance begins. Because different sections can be fed from different sources or hold stored energy, it’s essential to verify de-energization rather than assuming safety. So, the wires are considered energized unless proven de-energized and grounded.

Overhead wires carry high voltages and can pose a fatal shock risk, so the safe approach is to treat them as energized at all times unless a formal verification proves they are de-energized and properly grounded. This verification follows established procedures like lockout/tagout and zero-voltage testing to ensure there’s no stored or induced energy and to provide a safe working condition. Grounding helps discharge any residual energy and confirms the circuit is safe before maintenance begins. Because different sections can be fed from different sources or hold stored energy, it’s essential to verify de-energization rather than assuming safety. So, the wires are considered energized unless proven de-energized and grounded.