What is lockout/tagout and why is it important in welding safety?

• A. A labeling system for tools.
• B. Procedure to ensure equipment is de-energized and cannot be started during maintenance; prevents unexpected energization and shock.
• C. A welding technique to prevent contamination.
• D. A fire safety plan for the facility.

Answer: (B)

Lockout/tagout is a safety process that controls hazardous energy by ensuring equipment is de-energized and cannot be started during maintenance. In welding, this matters because powered welders, compressors, and hydraulic systems can hold stored energy or energize unexpectedly, posing shock or motion hazards to workers. The procedure involves identifying all energy sources, isolating them, applying lockout devices to physically prevent re-energization, tagging the equipment to warn others, and verifying that energy is zero before work begins. Only the person who applies the lockout is authorized to remove it. This is why the correct description states that it is a procedure to de-energize equipment and prevent startup during maintenance, protecting workers from unexpected energization and shock. Other options do not fit because they describe labeling for organization, a welding technique to prevent contamination, or a general fire safety plan, none of which address controlling hazardous energy during maintenance.