What type of persons are allowed to perform work on live or energized equipment?

The correct answer, "qualified," refers to individuals who have received specific training, have the necessary knowledge, and possess the skills required to perform work on live or energized equipment safely. These individuals understand the hazards associated with this type of work and are familiar with the safety procedures and protective measures that must be followed to mitigate risks.

In most electrical standards, including those from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a qualified person is defined as someone who can demonstrate the ability to work safely on energized systems. This includes understanding the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), lockout/tagout procedures, and the ability to recognize and avoid dangerous conditions.

The concept of being "authorized" typically applies to individuals who have been given the permission to perform certain tasks but may not necessarily have the specific training or skills needed to handle energized equipment. While both authorized and qualified personnel can work in environments that may involve live equipment, only those who are qualified have the comprehensive knowledge and experience to perform this work safely.

The other options, such as "special" and "quality," do not refer to recognized categories of personnel in this context. They do not possess the specific connotation or criteria associated with