The lockout device ensures that the energy isolating device cannot be operated until ______________.

• A. The lockout device is removed
• B. The energy isolating device is energized
• C. The tagout device is applied
• D. The energy source is restored

Answer: (A)

Lockout devices create a physical barrier that prevents the energy isolating device from being operated. They hold the equipment in a safe, de-energized state until the authorized person removes the lockout to re-energize it. This is why the statement that the energy isolating device cannot be operated until the lockout device is removed is the best choice: removal of the lockout (by the authorized individual) is required before any operation can resume, ensuring that workers are protected during maintenance. Energizing or restoring energy would defeat the protection, and relying solely on a tagout without the mechanical lock offers less assurance that the device cannot be operated.