What is the first option for safely working near a power line?

The safest first option for working near power lines is to de-energize and ground the lines. This step eliminates the risk of electrical shock and provides a safe environment for workers. De-energizing means cutting off the electrical supply, which directly removes the hazard, while grounding ensures that any residual energy is safely dissipated into the ground.

This approach is crucial because, despite other safety measures that can enhance protection, they all rely on the power lines being safely de-energized first. Utilizing insulating gloves, using non-conductive equipment, or setting up barriers can offer additional layers of safety, but they cannot replace the fundamental necessity of ensuring that the power source is completely off and safely managed. Hence, de-energizing and grounding is the foundational protocol for safe operations near power lines.