Which electrical safety practice involves securing machines so they cannot be powered up during repairs?

The practice of locking out or tagging out machines during repairs is crucial for ensuring worker safety in environments such as healthcare facilities where electrical equipment is used. Lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures require that when a machine or equipment is being serviced, it must be isolated from its energy source and rendered inoperable. This is typically achieved by placing a lock or tag on the energy-isolating device, which prevents any accidental re-energization while maintenance work is taking place.

This method is vital because it protects workers from the hazards of electrocution and other injuries that may occur if the equipment is unexpectedly powered on while they are conducting repairs or maintenance work. In healthcare settings, where electronic medical devices are often in use, adhering to LOTO procedures is especially important for safeguarding the well-being of both healthcare staff and patients.

Other options like grounding, personal protective equipment, and emergency shutoff serve different purposes. Grounding helps prevent electrical shock by providing a path for electrical current to dissipate safely. Personal protective equipment includes items like gloves and face shields to protect workers from electrical hazards, but it does not prevent the equipment from being powered on. Emergency shutoff systems allow quick disconnection of power in dangerous situations but do not provide the proactive measures