What safety precautions should you take before beginning repairs on an antenna?

Before working on any antenna system, it is absolutely crucial to eliminate the risk of accidental RF exposure. Turning off the transmitter and physically disconnecting the transmission line guarantees that no RF energy can reach the antenna while you are servicing it. If the transmitter were to be accidentally keyed by another person, a timed beacon, or a computer system while you are working, you could suffer severe RF burns or shock if you are touching the antenna elements. Other options, like working quickly to minimize fatigue or relying solely on a ground connection, do not address the immediate danger of accidental RF transmission. Physical disconnection is the only foolproof method to guarantee safety.