What initial step should be taken at the start of every fusion splicing operation?

Making test splices to verify settings and calibration is a critical initial step in any fusion splicing operation because it ensures that the splicing equipment is functioning correctly and that the splice will be successful. Fusion splicing requires precise alignment of the optical fibers and accurate calibration of the splicing machine to produce low-loss connections. By performing test splices, the technician can validate that the machine's settings are appropriate for the specific type of fibers being spliced and can identify any potential issues before working on the actual fibers.

Ensuring correct settings and calibration is essential to mitigate errors and maximize the quality of the splice, thus enhancing the overall reliability of the fiber optic network. This step ultimately saves time and resources by preventing wasted efforts on incorrect splices. Additionally, while other tasks such as rechecking inventory, cleaning fibers, and consulting team members are important in their own right, they should follow the verification of the splicing equipment to ensure that the operation begins on a solid foundation.