What safety precaution should be taken when working on a vehicle's electrical system?

Disconnecting the battery is a critical safety precaution when working on a vehicle's electrical system because it eliminates the risk of accidental electrical shock or short circuits. By removing the battery connection, you ensure that the electrical components you're working on are not live, significantly reducing the likelihood of injury or damage to the vehicle's electrical components.

Additionally, disconnecting the battery helps prevent unintended airbag deployment and other electrical hazards that could arise from a working system. This precaution is widely recommended in automotive repair procedures, as it provides a safe working environment and allows technicians to focus on their tasks without the worry of electrical incidents.