Which statement about using a fish tape near energized equipment is correct?

Which statement about using a fish tape near energized equipment is correct?

• A. Always use a fish tape near energized equipment.
• B. Never use a fish tape around energized equipment.
• C. Use a metal tape near energized equipment.
• D. Keep power off during pulling only.

Answer: (B)

Working near energized equipment requires extreme caution because tools can become paths for electricity. A fish tape is typically metal and can conduct electricity or momentarily contact live parts as it’s fed into a conduit or panel. If it touches energized conductors, you can get an electric shock, an arc flash, or cause a short that could damage equipment or start a fire. Because of that hazard, the safest and most correct approach is to avoid using a fish tape around energized equipment altogether and instead de-energize the circuit first, follow lockout/tagout procedures, and verify that there is no voltage before pulling cables. If work must be done on live circuits, only use tools and procedures rated for live work under proper training and guidelines.

Working near energized equipment requires extreme caution because tools can become paths for electricity. A fish tape is typically metal and can conduct electricity or momentarily contact live parts as it’s fed into a conduit or panel. If it touches energized conductors, you can get an electric shock, an arc flash, or cause a short that could damage equipment or start a fire. Because of that hazard, the safest and most correct approach is to avoid using a fish tape around energized equipment altogether and instead de-energize the circuit first, follow lockout/tagout procedures, and verify that there is no voltage before pulling cables. If work must be done on live circuits, only use tools and procedures rated for live work under proper training and guidelines.