What is one way to identify a live wire?

Using a non-contact voltage tester is an effective way to identify a live wire because these tools are designed to detect the presence of electrical voltage without requiring direct contact with the wire itself. Non-contact voltage testers work by sensing the electric field around a conductor, which allows linemen and electricians to safely assess whether a wire is energized while minimizing the risk of electrical shock. This is particularly valuable in situations where the line worker needs to determine if a wire is live before attempting any repairs or further inspection.

While other methods, such as using a multimeter, can measure voltage levels accurately, they typically require direct contact with the live wire. This increases the risk of electric shock if incorrect procedures are followed. Similarly, a clamp meter is primarily used to measure current flowing through a conductor and may not always be directly suitable for identifying live voltage in certain situations. Inspecting the insulation for damage is a useful practice for safety inspections but does not provide a direct method for confirming whether a wire is live or not. Thus, the non-contact voltage tester stands out as a safer and more immediate option for identifying live wires.