When is it essential to use personal protective equipment (PPE) in electrical work?

Using personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial when working near live wires because this scenario presents significant electrical hazards. Live wires can pose risks such as electric shock, arc flash, and burns, making it necessary to protect oneself adequately through the use of appropriate PPE. Equipment such as insulated gloves, face shields, and flame-resistant clothing significantly reduces the risk of injury from electrical hazards, ensuring that the worker's safety is prioritized in potentially dangerous situations.

The other situations where PPE is mentioned do not inherently present the same level of risk. Low-voltage operations might not require the same protective measures as working with live wires, and routine maintenance or well-lit environments do not mitigate the risk of electrical hazards. Therefore, the necessity of wearing PPE is particularly emphasized in scenarios where direct exposure to live electrical components is possible.