What is the primary purpose of lockout/tagout procedures?

• A. To identify equipment for maintenance
• B. To label equipment for color coding
• C. To prevent re-energization of equipment while maintenance is performed
• D. To speed up maintenance

Answer: (C)

The main idea is to stop a machine from powering up while someone is working on it. Lockout/tagout procedures isolate all sources of energy and keep them from being reconnected until the work is finished. A lockout uses physical devices—like padlocks—that prevent the energy-disconnecting points from being turned back on. A tagout adds a warning that work is in progress and who is responsible, so others know not to energize or to follow the proper steps to re-energize safely. This approach protects workers from shocks, moving parts, and the sudden release of stored energy during maintenance. It’s not just about labeling or speeding things up; the purpose is to ensure the equipment cannot re-energize while someone is servicing it.