If the battery is not disconnected while working on the electrical system, one significant risk is the increased likelihood of electrical shocks and shorts. This occurs because live electrical circuits can carry current, creating pathways for inadvertent electrical discharge. When a technician is working on wiring, components, or systems connected to the battery, any accidental contact with a live circuit can lead to electric shock, which may be dangerous to the technician.
Additionally, working on an energized system can cause short circuits if tools come into contact with exposed wires or terminals. Such shorts can damage the electrical components, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards like overheating or fires. By ensuring the battery is disconnected, technicians can work safely without the risk of live currents affecting their tools or the components they are handling.