When individuals place their own lock on a piece of equipment before working on it, this process is known as what?

The process of placing one's own lock on a piece of equipment before working on it is known as lockout/tagout. This safety procedure is crucial in ensuring that the equipment cannot be operated while maintenance or repairs are being performed. By securing their personal lock, workers effectively maintain control over the equipment, preventing accidental activation that could lead to injuries.

Lockout/tagout procedures are part of a broader safety strategy aimed at protecting employees from the unexpected energization, start-up, or release of hazardous energy while they are servicing or maintaining machinery. The use of locks serves as a physical barrier to ensure that only authorized personnel can access the equipment during the maintenance period.

This concept is particularly important in environments where multiple workers may be interacting with the same equipment, as it ensures clear communication about who is conducting maintenance and that proper safety measures are in place. Other options, such as tagging or isolation, do not fully encapsulate this comprehensive safety practice that emphasizes locking out the equipment along with proper notification protocols.