Which of the following items should be secured before maintenance work begins?

Securing equipment before maintenance work begins is crucial for ensuring the safety of all personnel involved. Properly secured equipment helps prevent accidents, such as unintentional startup, which can lead to serious injuries. By ensuring that equipment is de-energized, locked out, or otherwise secured, workers can perform maintenance tasks with a reduced risk of hazardous situations. This process is a part of safe work practices often emphasized in maintenance protocols and regulatory standards, which aim to protect both workers and the equipment itself from damage.

While securing the work area, tools, and personal belongings is important for overall safety and organization, the priority should be placed on equipment because it poses the greatest immediate risk if not properly managed. Tools should be organized to avoid trip hazards, and personal belongings should be stored safely to avoid clutter. However, these actions do not directly mitigate the risk associated with operating machinery during maintenance; hence, the primary focus should be on equipment security.