Which statement best describes verification of de-energization in a lockout/tagout program?

• A. Verification is performed only by the supervisor after the lockout.
• B. Verification is optional if the power is off.
• C. Verification of de-energization should be performed before starting work and may include testing with a rated meter and cross-checking with a second qualified person.
• D. Verification is done by visual inspection only.

Answer: (C)

Verification of de-energization means proving that all energy sources are isolated and that no stored energy can re-energize the equipment before any maintenance begins. In a lockout/tagout program, this check must happen prior to starting work. The best approach is to have a qualified person use a properly rated meter to test for absence of voltage and energy, and to have a second qualified person independently verify the result. This ensures that isolation is actually effective and accounts for all energy paths, reducing the risk of unexpected re-energization.

Relying on power being off or performing only a visual inspection is unsafe, since energy can remain even when it looks like the power is gone. Verification isn’t optional and isn’t something a supervisor does alone; it requires proper testing and authorization by qualified personnel.