How can you verify that electrical equipment is de-energized?

Using a voltage tester is the most reliable method to verify that electrical equipment is de-energized. A voltage tester allows you to measure the presence of electrical voltage in a circuit or device. When you use it properly, you can safely confirm that there is no voltage present. This method is recommended because it provides a direct measurement of electrical energy, ensuring that the equipment is fully de-energized and safe to work on.

While feeling for heat in the wires may seem like a practical approach, it is not a safe or effective method, as wires can be insulated and may not always feel warm even if they are live. Checking with your hands is also unsafe because you could be exposed to electric shock if the equipment is still energized. Lastly, looking for signs of wear does not provide any indication of whether the equipment is live; in fact, equipment could be worn but still functioning with electrical current. For ensuring safety, using a voltage tester is the best and most recommended practice.