What must be tested and verified before connecting new electrical equipment?

Before connecting new electrical equipment, it is crucial to test and verify the insulation resistance. This step is essential to ensure that the equipment is safe to operate and that there are no short circuits or ground faults that could pose a risk to both the equipment and personnel. A proper insulation resistance test checks the integrity of the equipment's insulation, ensuring it can withstand the operating voltage without allowing current to leak through to other conductors or the ground.

Insulation failures can lead to significant hazards, including electrical shocks, fires, and damage to the equipment itself. By confirming that the insulation resistance is within acceptable limits, one can guarantee that the equipment will operate safely under normal conditions.

While testing the voltage level, load capacity, and amperage rating is also important, these factors primarily relate to the performance and suitability of the equipment rather than its safety against electrical faults. Thus, validating the insulation resistance is a critical initial step in establishing the safety and reliability of new electrical installations.