What is Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) intended to prevent?

• A. Hazardous energy release during equipment service and maintenance
• B. Data loss during startup
• C. Excessive noise during operation
• D. Battery overcharging

Answer: (A)

Lockout/Tagout is a safety process that prevents hazardous energy from being released or suddenly applied while equipment is being serviced or maintained. The idea is to identify all energy sources connected to the machine (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, thermal, etc.), isolate those sources, and apply a lock to energy-controlling devices along with a tag that warns others not to energize the equipment. Before anyone works on the equipment, the energy state is checked to confirm it’s zero, ensuring it cannot start unexpectedly. This protects workers from injuries like electrocution, crushing, or burns that can happen if a machine starts or stores energy is released during maintenance.

The other options aren’t what LOTO targets. Data loss during startup relates to information systems and isn’t addressed by energy isolation. Excessive noise during operation is a different safety or ergonomic issue. Battery overcharging is about power management and charging controls, not preventing unexpected energy release during service.