What safety device is often used to prevent contact with live electrical parts?

The use of an electrical safety lock or lockout/tagout device is a critical practice in maintaining safety when working on electrical systems. These devices are designed to ensure that electrical circuits are properly disconnected and cannot be re-energized while maintenance or repair work is being performed. By physically locking the switch or circuit breaker in an off position, and tagging it to indicate that work is in progress, these devices effectively prevent unintentional contact with live electrical parts.

This practice is rooted in safety regulations and standards, such as those established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which emphasize the importance of controlling hazardous energy during maintenance activities. Using lockout/tagout devices not only protects the worker by minimizing the risk of electric shock, but it also serves to uphold a safe working environment for all personnel involved.

The other options, while related to electrical systems, do not serve the primary function of preventing contact with live electrical parts. An electrical switch controls the flow of electricity, a voltage regulator maintains a steady voltage level, and a surge protector is designed to mitigate spikes in electrical voltage. None of these directly addresses the need for ensuring that equipment remains de-energized during maintenance tasks the way a lockout/tagout device does.