What must be obtained before work begins on a deenergized line?

Before work begins on a deenergized line, obtaining a clearance is essential. A clearance is a formal process that ensures all necessary safety measures have been taken before personnel commence work on electrical equipment or lines. This involves verifying that the line is in fact deenergized and that it has been properly isolated from any power sources. Additionally, clearances help to communicate to all personnel working in the vicinity that maintenance or work is taking place, thereby reducing the risk of accidental energization and enhancing overall safety on the job site.

While permits, assessments, and completion certificates may be involved in other aspects of electrical work, they do not specifically address the immediate need for a formal acknowledgment that the work area is safe and secure before a task is undertaken on a deenergized line. Hence, the process of obtaining a clearance is critical to ensure compliance with safety regulations and protocols.