Common Safety Orientation (CSO) Practice Test

Who is authorized to remove an energy control (lockout) device?

1. The supervisor in charge

2. The individual who placed the energy control device in operation

3. Any safety officer present

4. A maintenance worker

The correct answer is: The individual who placed the energy control device in operation

The individual who placed the energy control device in operation is the only one authorized to remove it. This principle is grounded in the "Lockout/Tagout" (LOTO) procedures, which are critical for ensuring the safety of workers during maintenance or servicing of machinery. The rationale behind this is that the person who implemented the energy control is most aware of the hazards associated with the equipment and the specific conditions under which the lockout was applied. They have a comprehensive understanding of what maintenance or repair work was undertaken, thus ensuring that the machine is safe to operate again. Others, such as a supervisor, a safety officer, or a maintenance worker, may not have the necessary knowledge of the specific circumstances that led to the energy control being enacted. Allowing anyone other than the individual who applied the lockout to remove the energy control device could inadvertently lead to a dangerous situation if equipment is started while someone is still working on it or if other safety measures are still required. Therefore, maintaining this protocol not only protects the worker who is performing maintenance but also upholds overall workplace safety standards.