What is the first step in taking an energized circuit out of service?

Taking an energized circuit out of service begins with deenergizing the line. This is a critical step as it ensures that the electrical system is completely shut down, reducing the risk of electrocution or electrical hazards for those who will be working on it. By deenergizing the line, linemen can safely proceed to take other necessary actions, such as grounding the line, testing for voltage presence, and notifying customers.

Although grounding the line is important for safety, it should only be done after ensuring that the line is deenergized. Testing for voltage presence is a safety measure that typically follows deenergization to confirm that the line is indeed not live. Notifying customers is also a necessary procedure that relates to communication and service management, but it comes after ensuring the line is safely out of service. Thus, the first and crucial step in the process is to deenergize the line, creating a safe environment for further work.