If a lockout/tagout device is found to be missing, what should be the next step?

The correct answer emphasizes the critical importance of ensuring a safe work environment by not operating any equipment if a lockout/tagout device is missing. Lockout/tagout procedures are designed to safeguard workers from the accidental release of hazardous energy during maintenance or servicing activities.

When a lockout/tagout device is missing, it indicates that the equipment may not be securely isolated from hazardous energy sources, which poses a significant risk to individuals operating or working near that equipment. By choosing not to operate the equipment until the issue is resolved, workers prioritize their safety as well as the safety of others around them.

In situations where safety devices are compromised or are unaccounted for, it is essential to address the issue immediately, allowing personnel to investigate and implement the necessary corrective actions. This could involve searching for the missing device, putting a new lockout/tagout in place, or possibly shutting down the equipment safely until it can be secured properly, thereby upholding the principles of risk management and safety compliance in the workplace.