Outline the basic steps of a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedure.

• A. Start equipment quickly to test
• B. Identify energy sources, notify affected workers, shut down equipment, isolate energy, apply lockout/tagout devices, verify zero energy, perform maintenance, remove devices, and reenergize only after verification
• C. Notify supervisor only
• D. De-energize then reenergize immediately

Answer: (B)

Lockout/tagout procedures protect workers by ensuring equipment cannot be energized while maintenance or repair is underway. The basic sequence starts with identifying all energy sources that could power the equipment and understanding how they could be released. Next, inform affected workers so everyone knows a lockout is in place. Then shut the equipment down using normal stopping procedures to avoid surprises. After that, isolate all energy sources—such as killing power, closing valves, or disconnecting lines—to cut off any path for energy. Apply lockout or tagout devices to hold the isolation settings in place and prevent reenergizing. A verification step follows to confirm there is zero energy and the machine cannot be started accidentally. With energy secured and verified, perform the maintenance or servicing. When work is finished, remove the devices in the proper order and reenergize the system only after confirming it is safe to do so. This ordered approach minimizes the risk of unexpected startups or energy releases that could injure someone.