The OSHA lockout/tagout rule ______.

• A. Applies to any stored energy that could cause injury (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, chemical, thermal, kinetic, or other)
• B. Applies to electrical energy only
• C. Applies to hydraulic energy only
• D. Applies to chemical energy only

Answer: (A)

Hazardous energy control during servicing is what OSHA lockout/tagout is all about. The rule applies to any stored energy that could cause injury—electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, chemical, thermal, kinetic, or other—not just one type. This broad scope is what keeps workers safe by preventing unexpected energization or the release of stored energy while maintenance is performed. The process typically involves de-energizing equipment, isolating energy sources, applying locks or tags, and verifying zero energy before work begins. Limiting the rule to a single energy form would miss hazards from hydraulic pressure, hot surfaces, or moving parts, which is why the all-encompassing description is the best fit.