Safety and work practicesQuestion 294 of 1506

Why is a temporary shorting wire placed across a de-energized load in high voltage maintenance?

It lowers the load resistance to make testing easier
It protects workers if the disconnect is closed by mistake
It keeps the load capacitors fully charged
It replaces the need for lock-out and tagging

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Correct answer: It protects workers if the disconnect is closed by mistake

If the disconnect closes, the short trips the overcurrent device and the workers at the load stay safe.

Source: Troubleshooting Motors and Controls (Dickson-Self), 1.1: Safety

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026

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