When is it appropriate to perform live electrical work?

Performing live electrical work is appropriate only when necessary and with proper precautions due to the inherent risks involved. The safety of workers and compliance with industry regulations dictate that live work should be minimized. This approach ensures that any live work done is essential for maintaining or restoring power and is performed under controlled conditions with appropriate safety measures in place, such as personal protective equipment and proper training.

In situations where live work is unavoidable, it is crucial that thorough procedures are followed to mitigate risks. This includes conducting a risk assessment, using the right tools and protective gear, and ensuring that only qualified personnel are tasked with this work.

While scheduled maintenance checks may involve some live work, the correct answer emphasizes the necessity and precautions needed rather than suggesting that such tasks should be performed arbitrarily just to adhere to timelines or during routine checks. This ensures that safety remains the priority in any operational context.