What precaution should be taken when working on a neutral wire?

Treating a neutral wire as if it is live is crucial for ensuring safety while working on power lines. Though a neutral wire is typically at ground potential, it can carry current under fault conditions or if there is an imbalance in the system, meaning it could be energized.

By assuming the neutral wire is live, workers are encouraged to take all necessary precautions as they would with a live wire. This includes maintaining a safe distance, using proper personal protective equipment, and employing insulated tools to avoid accidental shocks or electrocution. This mindset helps instill a culture of caution and respect for electrical systems, minimizing the risk of accidents on the job site.

In this context, the other options do not fully address the inherent risks. Insulated tools are important for safety, but by themselves, they do not account for the unexpected situations that might arise with a neutral wire. Gloves are also beneficial, but they do not replace the need for treating the neutral wire with the same respect as a live wire. Therefore, understanding the importance of treating the neutral wire as live is fundamental to electrical safety practices.