What is the purpose of a live-dead-live test?

The purpose of a live-dead-live test is to verify that circuits are deenergized. This testing method involves measuring for the presence of voltage in the prescribed manner to ensure that no electrical energy is present in the circuit before any work is performed. The process typically includes checking the circuit with a voltage tester first when the circuit is believed to be live, then confirming it is dead by using an appropriate testing method before finally checking it again to confirm it remains deenergized. This is critical for maintaining safety while working on electrical systems, as it helps prevent accidental electrocution or electric shock by ensuring that workers are not exposed to live circuits.

While confirming that circuits are energized, ensuring equipment functions properly, or assessing the integrity of personal protective equipment (PPE) are important aspects of electrical safety, they do not specifically address the primary goal of this testing method, which focuses exclusively on the deenergization of circuits.