In a lockout/tagout procedure, which step directly follows shutting down equipment?

• A. Isolate energy.
• B. Notify affected workers.
• C. Verify zero energy.
• D. Apply lockout/tagout devices.

Answer: (A)

After you shut down equipment, the next crucial action is to isolate its energy sources. This means securing electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and any other energy paths so nothing can re-energize the machine, even if someone tries to restart it. Isolation creates a protective boundary around the system and prepares you to secure those energy paths with lockout or tagout devices. Only after this isolation is in place do you apply the lockout/tagout devices and then verify zero energy before work begins. Notifying affected workers is important for safety, but it isn’t the step that directly prevents re-energization. Verifying zero energy and applying the devices come after isolation.