What is the correct approach to maintenance energy control on a machine?

• A. Follow lockout/tagout, release stored energy, and verify zero energy before servicing.
• B. Ignore stored energy and proceed with servicing.
• C. Only lockout if a fault occurs during service.
• D. Use a different procedure than lockout/tagout for convenience.

Answer: (B)

Hazardous energy must be controlled before any maintenance begins. The safest approach is to turn off the machine, isolate all energy sources, and physically lockout the equipment so it cannot be restarted. After isolation, release or restrain any stored energy—such as springs, hydraulics, pneumatics, capacitors, or gravity—so there’s no residual force that could surprise a worker. Then verify there is zero energy present using the appropriate testing methods before opening panels or performing service. Only after confirming a zero-energy state should maintenance proceed. This sequence protects workers from unexpected energization or the release of stored energy, which could cause serious injury. Ignoring stored energy or proceeding without proper locking and verification is unsafe and could lead to injury.