In lockout/tagout, which step explicitly confirms energy is zero?

In lockout/tagout, which step explicitly confirms energy is zero?

• A. Identify energy sources.
• B. Isolate energy.
• C. Verify zero energy.
• D. Apply locks/tags.

Answer: (C)

Verifying zero energy is the step that explicitly confirms there is no energy present before work begins. Identifying energy sources and isolating them set up the conditions, and applying locks or tags secures that isolation, but they don’t prove that all energy has been removed. The verification step uses appropriate testing methods to check for voltage, stored energy, and other residual energies, and may involve attempting to re-energize in a controlled way or using meters to confirm zero potential. This confirmation is what makes it safe to proceed with the maintenance while the locking devices stay in place.

Verifying zero energy is the step that explicitly confirms there is no energy present before work begins. Identifying energy sources and isolating them set up the conditions, and applying locks or tags secures that isolation, but they don’t prove that all energy has been removed. The verification step uses appropriate testing methods to check for voltage, stored energy, and other residual energies, and may involve attempting to re-energize in a controlled way or using meters to confirm zero potential. This confirmation is what makes it safe to proceed with the maintenance while the locking devices stay in place.