Why must equipment be isolated before repairs?

• A. To prevent current flow
• B. To prevent accidental energization
• C. To avoid warranty voidance
• D. To speed up repair

Answer: (B)

Isolating equipment before repairs is all about safety from unexpected energization. When you disconnect power and apply lockout/tagout, you ensure no one can turn the system back on while you’re working, and you also discharge any stored energy that could release suddenly. In welding systems, capacitors, springs, or charged lines can still release energy even after the switch is off, leading to electric shock, burns, or an arc flash. So the main reason for isolating is to prevent accidental energization. Stopping current flow is related, but the safety focus is on preventing someone or something from energizing the equipment unexpectedly. The other options don’t address that critical safety risk.