What is a "lockout/tagout" procedure?

A "lockout/tagout" procedure is a crucial safety protocol designed to protect workers from the unexpected activation of machinery during maintenance or repair work. This procedure involves physically locking the machinery in a safe position and placing a tag that clearly communicates that the machine should not be operated.

This method is important because it helps in preventing accidents that could occur if a machine is inadvertently restarted while someone is performing maintenance on it. By ensuring that machinery is properly shut off and secured, "lockout/tagout" procedures safeguard workers from serious injuries or fatalities that could arise from unexpected machine operation. Understanding and implementing this protocol is vital in maintaining workplace safety, particularly in environments where heavy machinery is used.

The other choices, while potentially relevant in different contexts, do not align with the specific definition and purpose of a "lockout/tagout" procedure.