Which safety precaution is specifically recommended before performing a continuity check?

Which safety precaution is specifically recommended before performing a continuity check?

• A. The power must be turned off
• B. The circuit must be de-energized and tagged
• C. The power must be on for a quick check
• D. The circuit must be grounded

Answer: (B)

Before checking continuity, the circuit must be de-energized and tagged. De-energizing removes all voltage and stored energy, so there’s no shock risk and readings won’t be affected by an active circuit. Tagging communicates to others that maintenance is in progress and that the circuit must not be re-energized until the test is complete and the tag is removed. This combination provides both personal safety and test accuracy. Grounding the circuit isn’t the primary precaution for a simple continuity check, and leaving power on is unsafe and could damage the tester or cause hazards.

Before checking continuity, the circuit must be de-energized and tagged. De-energizing removes all voltage and stored energy, so there’s no shock risk and readings won’t be affected by an active circuit. Tagging communicates to others that maintenance is in progress and that the circuit must not be re-energized until the test is complete and the tag is removed. This combination provides both personal safety and test accuracy. Grounding the circuit isn’t the primary precaution for a simple continuity check, and leaving power on is unsafe and could damage the tester or cause hazards.