OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewFocus Four HazardsMedium
A worker is performing maintenance on a large industrial mixer. To prevent accidental startup and entanglement, the worker correctly applies lockout/tagout procedures. Which of the following is the primary purpose of applying a tagout device in addition to a lockout device?
- ATo automatically de-energize the equipment if the lockout device fails.
- BTo alert others that the equipment is being worked on and must not be operated.
- CTo provide additional physical blockage of the energy source.
- DTo record the specific time and date the lockout procedure was initiated.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. To alert others that the equipment is being worked on and must not be operated.
A tagout device (tag) serves as a warning label, communicating that the equipment is locked out and should not be operated. While lockout provides physical isolation, tagout provides clear, visible communication to all personnel.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Tagout devices are passive warnings and do not have active de-energization capabilities.
- C. Tagout devices are warning labels, not physical barriers; lockout devices provide the physical blockage.
- D. While permits or logs record dates, the tag itself is primarily for warning, not detailed record-keeping in this context.
Lockout/Tagout Purpose
Lockout physically isolates energy, while tagout provides a warning that equipment is locked out and must not be operated.
- Prevents unexpected startup or energy release.
- Protects workers from 'caught-in/between' and electrocution hazards.
- Required for servicing or maintenance of machinery.
Memory trick: Lock says 'no go,' tag says 'don't touch, bro.'