Which of the following is NOT a standard step of lockout/tagout (LOTO) before performing electrical or mechanical maintenance?

• A. Identify energy sources
• B. Re-energize the equipment after maintenance
• C. Apply lockout/tagout devices
• D. Verify zero energy

Answer: (B)

LOTO is all about preventing unexpected energization while work is being done. The process starts by identifying all energy sources that could energize the equipment, so you know what needs to be controlled. Next, you isolate those sources and apply lockout or tagout devices to ensure they cannot be turned back on. After isolation, you verify there is zero energy—meaning stored or residual energy is dissipated—before any maintenance begins. Re-energizing the equipment after maintenance is completed is the step that restores power, not a preparatory action for work. It happens only after the maintenance is finished and the LOTO devices are removed, so it does not belong in the standard pre-maintenance sequence. Therefore, re-energizing after maintenance is not a standard step before performing maintenance.