What does it mean to perform 'lockout/tagout' procedures?

Performing 'lockout/tagout' procedures is fundamentally about ensuring safety during maintenance or repair work on equipment that operates using energy sources. This process involves isolating energy sources to prevent the equipment from being accidentally energized while a worker is performing tasks like repairs or maintenance.

Lockout refers to the physical locking of energy isolating devices to prevent the transmission of hazardous energy, while tagout involves placing a prominent warning tag on these devices to inform others that maintenance is taking place, thereby preventing accidental re-energization. By implementing these procedures, workers create a safer work environment, minimizing the risk of injuries or fatalities that could occur from unexpected machinery start-up.

The other options, which refer to enhancing functionality, optimizing flow, and conducting energy audits, are not related to the critical safety focus of lockout/tagout procedures. These aspects deal with improving efficiency or assessing energy use, rather than the fundamental purpose of ensuring worker safety by controlling energy sources during maintenance activities.