What should be the first priority before examining electrical equipment?

The first priority before examining electrical equipment is to ensure that there is no electrical current to the equipment. This step is critical for safety reasons. Electrical equipment can present significant hazards, including the risk of electric shock or fire, if it is still energized. By confirming that there is no current flowing to the equipment, the investigator can safely examine, diagnose, or collect evidence without endangering their own safety or compromising the investigation process.

While labeling components, recording serial numbers, and checking for prior damage are all important aspects of the investigation process, they should only be conducted once it has been established that the environment is safe to proceed. Prioritizing safety ensures that the investigation can be conducted effectively without risk to the investigator or further damage to the equipment.