What are the first four steps of lockout/tagout (LOTO) when servicing HVAC equipment?

What are the first four steps of lockout/tagout (LOTO) when servicing HVAC equipment?

• A. Identify energy sources; shut down the equipment; isolate energy sources; apply lockout/tagout devices
• B. Shut down the equipment; identify energy sources; apply lockout/tagout devices; verify zero energy before work
• C. Identify energy sources; isolate energy sources; apply lockout/tagout devices; shut down the equipment
• D. Verify zero energy before work; identify energy sources; shut down the equipment; isolate energy sources

Answer: (A)

The first four steps focus on safely preparing to work by controlling every possible energy source. First, you identify all energy sources associated with the equipment so you know what must be controlled (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, stored energy, etc.). Next, you shut down the equipment using its normal operating controls to place it in a safe, non-operating state. Then you isolate the energy sources so nothing can re-energize the equipment (disconnect power, close valves, drain stored energy, etc.). Finally, you apply lockout or tagout devices to physically secure the isolation and communicate that maintenance is in progress, preventing accidental re-energization. Verification of zero energy comes after these steps, ensuring there is no residual energy before work begins. This sequence matters because each step progressively reduces the risk of unexpected energization or energy release during servicing.

The first four steps focus on safely preparing to work by controlling every possible energy source. First, you identify all energy sources associated with the equipment so you know what must be controlled (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, stored energy, etc.). Next, you shut down the equipment using its normal operating controls to place it in a safe, non-operating state. Then you isolate the energy sources so nothing can re-energize the equipment (disconnect power, close valves, drain stored energy, etc.). Finally, you apply lockout or tagout devices to physically secure the isolation and communicate that maintenance is in progress, preventing accidental re-energization. Verification of zero energy comes after these steps, ensuring there is no residual energy before work begins. This sequence matters because each step progressively reduces the risk of unexpected energization or energy release during servicing.