Almost every major powerline or equipment in a substation has an associated means of completely isolating it from other energized elements as a prudent means of insuring safety by preventing accidental energization. These simple switches, called disconnects, are usually installed on both sides of the equipment or line upon which work is to be done. They should not be operated while the connected circuit is energized, but only after the circuit is deenergized. As a further precaution, they may be opened by means of an insulated stick that helps the operator keep a distance from the switch.