What does the term "lockout/tagout" refer to in electrical work?

The term "lockout/tagout" refers to a safety protocol designed to ensure that machinery and equipment are properly shut off and not able to be restarted until maintenance or servicing is completed. This practice is crucial in preventing accidental energization of equipment, which could lead to serious injuries or fatalities for workers conducting maintenance. The process involves placing a lock on the energy isolating device and attaching a tag to communicate that the equipment should not be operated until the lock is removed.

This safety measure is rooted in regulatory standards and is a fundamental part of workplace safety in electrical work, where the risks of live electrical circuits can pose significant dangers if not properly managed. The other options describe practices related to electrical work but do not encompass the full scope of what lockout/tagout represents in promoting a safe working environment.