Which device is used to prevent re-energization of equipment during maintenance?

Which device is used to prevent re-energization of equipment during maintenance?

• A. Brake pedal
• B. Guard rail
• C. PPE
• D. Lockout/tagout devices

Answer: (D)

Lockout/tagout devices are used to isolate and secure energy sources so equipment cannot be re-energized while maintenance is being performed. They work by physically locking the energy-isolating device (like a switch, valve, or breaker) in the off position and attaching a warning tag with information about who locked it and why. This creates a strong, verifiable control that prevents unexpected startup, and it ensures that only the person who applied the lock can remove it, which protects workers during service. PPE protects the worker but does not stop equipment from energizing, and guard rails or a brake pedal do not isolate or control energy sources.

Lockout/tagout devices are used to isolate and secure energy sources so equipment cannot be re-energized while maintenance is being performed. They work by physically locking the energy-isolating device (like a switch, valve, or breaker) in the off position and attaching a warning tag with information about who locked it and why. This creates a strong, verifiable control that prevents unexpected startup, and it ensures that only the person who applied the lock can remove it, which protects workers during service.

PPE protects the worker but does not stop equipment from energizing, and guard rails or a brake pedal do not isolate or control energy sources.