What action should be taken immediately if a ground fault is suspected?

When a ground fault is suspected, the immediate action should be to turn off the circuit and identify the source. This is crucial because a ground fault can lead to dangerous conditions such as electrical shock or fire due to unintended paths for electrical current. By shutting off the circuit, you eliminate the risk of continued electrical flow, which can prevent injury and further damage.

Identifying the source of the ground fault is essential for troubleshooting and resolving the issue effectively. It allows for a systematic approach to diagnosing whether the problem lies within the equipment, wiring, or another interconnected component. The importance of taking prompt action cannot be understated, as delaying can exacerbate safety risks.

Other actions listed, such as conducting an electrical inspection or calling the electric utility company, may be necessary later in the process but are not the immediate steps to ensure safety. Similarly, increasing the load capacity on the circuit is counterproductive and could lead to more significant problems.