When is lockout/tagout (LOTO) required?

Lockout/tagout (LOTO) is a crucial safety protocol designed to protect workers from the accidental release of hazardous energy during maintenance or servicing activities. The requirement for LOTO comes into play specifically when there is potential for hazardous energy to be released – this includes electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or other forms of energy.

The correct answer emphasizes that LOTO must be applied before any servicing or maintenance activities on machines or equipment that could release hazardous energy. This step ensures that all energy sources are effectively controlled, preventing unexpected energization, startup of machines, or the release of stored energy that could cause injuries.

Other choices may not encompass the full scope of the situations where LOTO is required. For example, simply being out of service for repairs doesn't cover situations where maintenance is being performed on equipment still within operational parameters that pose hazards. Additionally, operating hours is overly broad, as LOTO is not required when machines are merely in operation unless there's maintenance being executed. Likewise, addressing minor issues may not warrant LOTO if they do not involve servicing that could lead to the release of hazardous energy. By following LOTO procedures during maintenance, the safety of workers is significantly enhanced.