What is the function of grounding a line before working on it?

Grounding a line before working on it is crucial for safety, as it effectively prevents injuries or accidents. This practice is designed to provide a safe path for electricity to travel into the ground, ensuring that any accidental contact with live electricity doesn't result in electric shock or electrocution for the workers. By grounding the line, any stray electrical currents are directed safely away, protecting those working on the line from potential harm.

The other choices, while they may seem beneficial in various contexts, do not directly address the primary importance of grounding in ensuring worker safety. Grounding does not inherently guarantee that there will be no interference with electrical devices; it also does not necessarily enhance work performance or reduce maintenance costs, as its main purpose pertains to safety rather than operational efficiency or financial considerations.