An electrical panel needs maintenance work. The lockout/tagout procedure requires that the energy source be:
Correct Answer
B) Isolated, locked out, tagged, and tested
Proper lockout/tagout procedures require the energy source to be isolated, physically locked out, tagged with information, and then tested to verify it is de-energized before work begins.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option B is correct because OSHA's lockout/tagout (LOTO) standard requires a comprehensive four-step process for electrical safety. The energy source must be isolated from its power supply, physically locked out with a device that prevents re-energization, tagged with identification and warning information, and then tested to verify zero energy state. This complete sequence ensures maximum worker protection by addressing all potential failure points in the safety procedure.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Turned off and marked with warning tape
Option A is insufficient because warning tape alone does not physically prevent someone from re-energizing the circuit, and it lacks the isolation, locking, and testing verification steps required by OSHA standards.
Option C: Disconnected and posted with a sign
Option C is incomplete because disconnecting and posting signs does not include the critical physical lockout device or the testing verification step to confirm de-energization.
Option D: De-energized and barriers installed
Option D is inadequate because while de-energizing and installing barriers are good practices, it omits the mandatory locking mechanism, tagging requirements, and testing verification that OSHA requires.
Memory Technique
Use the acronym 'I-L-T-T' (Isolate, Lock, Tag, Test) - remember 'I Left Two Tokens' to recall all four required LOTO steps in order.
Reference Hint
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.417 - Lockout and Tagging of Circuits, or Florida Building Code Chapter 27 - Electrical
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