What is the primary function of the tag and lockout disconnect switch in LOTO?

What is the primary function of the tag and lockout disconnect switch in LOTO?

• A. Prevent equipment theft
• B. Identify the individual who placed the lock
• C. Inform workers of maintenance schedules
• D. Disable equipment power supply

Answer: (B)

The primary function of the tag and lockout disconnect switch in a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedure is to disable the equipment power supply. This is essential for ensuring safety during maintenance or repair work, as it prevents accidental energization of machinery or equipment that could cause injury to workers. The tag and lockout device ensure that only authorized personnel can access the power supply or equipment while maintenance is being performed. By effectively disabling the power source, this procedure helps to create a controlled environment, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. While identifying the individual who placed the lock is important for accountability and safety within LOTO procedures, the fundamental purpose of the disconnect switch is to eliminate the hazard posed by the energized equipment, making the disabling of equipment power supply the correct answer.

The primary function of the tag and lockout disconnect switch in a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedure is to disable the equipment power supply. This is essential for ensuring safety during maintenance or repair work, as it prevents accidental energization of machinery or equipment that could cause injury to workers.

The tag and lockout device ensure that only authorized personnel can access the power supply or equipment while maintenance is being performed. By effectively disabling the power source, this procedure helps to create a controlled environment, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

While identifying the individual who placed the lock is important for accountability and safety within LOTO procedures, the fundamental purpose of the disconnect switch is to eliminate the hazard posed by the energized equipment, making the disabling of equipment power supply the correct answer.