What must be done before a machine or equipment is locked out?

What must be done before a machine or equipment is locked out?

• A. It must be painted a different color
• B. The machine must be shut down using normal stopping procedures and all sources of hazardous energy must be identified and isolated
• C. Employees must be given a warning 30 minutes prior
• D. Documentation must be logged into a system

Answer: (B)

The correct response emphasizes the critical safety procedures required before locking out a machine or equipment. Before a lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure can be effectively implemented, it is essential for the machine to be shut down using its normal stopping procedures. This ensures that the equipment is stabilized and that any potentially hazardous operations are ceased safely. Following that, all sources of hazardous energy connected to the equipment, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or any other energy sources, must be identified and isolated. This step is crucial to prevent unexpected energization, startup, or release of stored energy, which could lead to serious injuries or fatalities. By ensuring that these procedures are followed, workers can perform maintenance safely and are protected from machine-related hazards. Adhering to this process is a foundational element of OSHA's Lockout/Tagout standards, highlighting the importance of a thorough safety protocol before any maintenance work can begin.

The correct response emphasizes the critical safety procedures required before locking out a machine or equipment. Before a lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure can be effectively implemented, it is essential for the machine to be shut down using its normal stopping procedures. This ensures that the equipment is stabilized and that any potentially hazardous operations are ceased safely.

Following that, all sources of hazardous energy connected to the equipment, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or any other energy sources, must be identified and isolated. This step is crucial to prevent unexpected energization, startup, or release of stored energy, which could lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

By ensuring that these procedures are followed, workers can perform maintenance safely and are protected from machine-related hazards. Adhering to this process is a foundational element of OSHA's Lockout/Tagout standards, highlighting the importance of a thorough safety protocol before any maintenance work can begin.