What safety measure should be taken before beginning electrical work?

Before beginning any electrical work, it is crucial to ensure that the electrical supply is turned off. This safety measure is fundamental to preventing electric shock, which can occur if a person accidentally comes into contact with live electrical components. By turning off the electrical supply, you eliminate the risk of electricity flowing through circuits, thus creating a safe working environment.

In addition to minimizing the risk of electric shock, turning off the power allows for safer use of tools and equipment, as many electrical tools may need to make contact with what's inside a live circuit, which could lead to dangerous situations if the power is still on. Utilizing lockout/tagout procedures further reinforces this safety measure, ensuring that the electrical supply cannot be inadvertently turned back on while work is being performed.

The focus on the aesthetic quality of equipment does not contribute to safety and is irrelevant in this context. Similarly, while having the necessary tools available is important for efficiency and effectiveness, it does not address the immediate safety risks associated with electrical work. Identifying potential customers may be a part of business operations but has no bearing on safety measures required before starting electrical work.