What procedure provides a documented means of ensuring equipment cannot start up during maintenance?

• A. Chock wheels
• B. Lockout/tagout procedures
• C. De-energize hydraulics
• D. Wear PPE

Answer: (B)

Lockout/tagout procedures provide a documented way to isolate all energy sources and prevent the equipment from starting while maintenance is performed. The idea is to systematically identify every energy source that could energize the gear system, physically disconnect or lock out those sources, and place a warning tag to tell others that work is in progress. With a lock in place, even someone with the ability to energize the system cannot restart it; the tag communicates the maintenance status and who is responsible. Verification steps are performed before work begins and after locking out, to confirm that there is no residual or stored energy and that the system cannot be re-energized accidentally. This combination of documented steps, energy isolation, and visible warning ensures a safe maintenance environment.

Chocking wheels only prevents movement and does not address electrical, hydraulic, or other energy sources that could cause startup. De-energizing hydraulics targets a specific energy path but does not provide the comprehensive, documented control and lockable isolation that prevents any startup. Wearing PPE protects the worker but does not prevent the equipment from being energized or started.