Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What does the term "lockout/tagout" refer to?

1. The process of securing machines during operation

2. A method for storing chemicals safely

3. Ensuring equipment is properly cleaned

4. The procedure for ensuring machines are not accidentally started during maintenance

The correct answer is: The procedure for ensuring machines are not accidentally started during maintenance

The term "lockout/tagout" specifically refers to a procedural safety mechanism used in maintenance and servicing of machinery to prevent accidental start-up. When maintenance is being performed on equipment, it is crucial to ensure that the machine cannot be inadvertently energised or turned on, which could pose a significant danger to workers. This involves isolating the energy source of the machinery and using a lock (lockout) and a tag (tagout) to indicate that the machine should not be operated while maintenance is underway. The first option, while related to machinery, implies securing machines while they operate rather than during maintenance, which does not capture the essence of lockout/tagout procedures focused on safety during service. The second choice about safely storing chemicals does not relate to the concept of lockout/tagout at all, as it deals with chemical safety rather than mechanical safety. The third option about ensuring equipment is properly cleaned does not address the critical aspect of preventing unintended operation during maintenance, which is central to lockout/tagout procedures. Therefore, option D accurately describes the lockout/tagout process, highlighting its importance in maintaining safety during maintenance by preventing the unexpected start-up of equipment.