In a Lockout/Tagout procedure, which step comes immediately after isolating the equipment?

• A. Identify energy sources.
• B. Verify zero energy.
• C. Apply lockout/tagout devices.
• D. Release the lockout.

Answer: (C)

Isolating the equipment removes the energy sources so the machine can’t power up during maintenance. The step that comes next is to apply lockout or tagout devices to those energy-control points. This provides a tangible safeguard—locks or tags placed on switches, valves, or other energy sources—that prevents anyone from re-energizing the system while work is being done. Without applying these devices, isolating alone could be bypassed if someone restores power or if there are other paths of energy release, including stored energy.

After the devices are in place, the usual next checks involve verifying zero energy to confirm there’s no residual power before beginning the work, and then addressing stored energy and eventually removing the devices when it’s safe to restore energy. Planning steps like identifying energy sources occur earlier, and releasing the lockout is the final phase once maintenance is complete.