Should an arrestor be energized before attaching the ground to the bottom?

Attaching the ground to the bottom of an arrestor before energizing it is crucial for safety and proper operation. If an arrestor is energized before grounding it, there is an increased risk of electric shock or arc flash. Grounding the device first ensures that any fault current can be safely redirected to the ground, minimizing the hazard to the lineman and preventing potential damage to the arrestor and other equipment.

These safety practices are standard in the industry to protect workers and ensure the reliability of the electrical system. Effective grounding is essential, especially when working with devices that manage surge protection, as it provides a path for electrical surges or faults, thus safeguarding both personnel and equipment.