What safety measure should be taken before performing maintenance on electrical equipment?

Before performing maintenance on electrical equipment, ensuring that the equipment is turned off and properly locked out is a critical safety measure. This process, known as lockout/tagout (LOTO), is essential to prevent accidental energization of the equipment while maintenance is being carried out. When the equipment is securely turned off and locked, it can significantly reduce the risk of electrical shocks, burns, or other hazardous incidents that could occur from unexpected startup.

Lockout procedures ensure that only authorized personnel have control over the power supply to the equipment, and that no one else can inadvertently turn it back on while maintenance is in progress. Following this safety protocol is key in creating a safe working environment, especially in healthcare facilities where electrical equipment is essential.

In contrast, checking the equipment while it's running or performing maintenance without any special precautions would expose the technician to unnecessary risks. Using the equipment normally while making adjustments similarly puts individuals at risk by not addressing potential electrical hazards. Hence, the practice of locking out and tagging out equipment is fundamentally vital for maintaining safety during electrical maintenance tasks.