Which sequence correctly describes the typical lockout/tagout steps?

Which sequence correctly describes the typical lockout/tagout steps?

• A. Identify energy sources, notify affected workers, shut down equipment, isolate energy, apply lockout/tagout devices, verify zero energy, perform work, remove devices, re-energize.
• B. Notify affected workers, identify energy sources, shut down equipment, re-energize, remove devices, verify zero energy, apply lockout/tagout devices, isolate energy, perform work.
• C. Identify energy sources, shut down equipment, apply lockout/tagout devices, isolate energy, notify affected workers, verify zero energy, re-energize, perform work, remove devices.
• D. Identify energy sources, isolate energy, shut down equipment, apply lockout/tagout devices, verify zero energy, perform work, remove devices, re-energize, notify affected workers.

Answer: (A)

Controlling hazardous energy safely during servicing requires a specific sequence that protects workers from unexpected machine movement or energy release. Begin by identifying all energy sources for the equipment so you know what needs locking or tagging. This awareness helps prevent missing a source that could re-energize the machine. Then notify affected workers so everyone who could be exposed knows a shutdown and lockout is going on, reducing the chance of someone attempting to operate the equipment. Shut down the equipment to stop its function, and then isolate the energy sources to prevent any others from re-energizing it. Once the energy sources are isolated, apply lockout or tagout devices to clearly indicate that the equipment must not be energized. After that, verify zero energy by testing or other means to ensure there is no residual or stored energy that could cause movement or energy release. With the equipment confirmed safe, workers can perform the necessary maintenance or work. When the job is complete, remove the lockout/tagout devices only after ensuring the area is clear and all stored energy has been released or restrained, then re-energize the equipment and return it to service. Finally, inform affected workers that the task is finished and the equipment is energized again. This order matters because it builds in checks and protections at each step, preventing unexpected starts or releases and keeping everyone in the area safe.

Controlling hazardous energy safely during servicing requires a specific sequence that protects workers from unexpected machine movement or energy release. Begin by identifying all energy sources for the equipment so you know what needs locking or tagging. This awareness helps prevent missing a source that could re-energize the machine. Then notify affected workers so everyone who could be exposed knows a shutdown and lockout is going on, reducing the chance of someone attempting to operate the equipment.

Shut down the equipment to stop its function, and then isolate the energy sources to prevent any others from re-energizing it. Once the energy sources are isolated, apply lockout or tagout devices to clearly indicate that the equipment must not be energized. After that, verify zero energy by testing or other means to ensure there is no residual or stored energy that could cause movement or energy release.

With the equipment confirmed safe, workers can perform the necessary maintenance or work. When the job is complete, remove the lockout/tagout devices only after ensuring the area is clear and all stored energy has been released or restrained, then re-energize the equipment and return it to service. Finally, inform affected workers that the task is finished and the equipment is energized again.

This order matters because it builds in checks and protections at each step, preventing unexpected starts or releases and keeping everyone in the area safe.