Which statement best differentiates lockout from tagout and when are both used?

• A. Lockout physically secures energy-isolating devices to prevent re-energizing; tagout provides a warning; Both are used together.
• B. Lockout simply labels the equipment; tagout physically locks the device.
• C. Only one of them is used depending on the situation.
• D. They are the same thing.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how lockout and tagout differ in protecting workers when equipment is being serviced, and how they work together in practice. Lockout physically secures energy‑isolating devices with a lock so the equipment cannot be energized until the lock is removed by the authorized person. Tagout uses a visible warning tag attached to the device that communicates it is isolated and who controls it, but the tag alone does not prevent re-energizing. The safest approach is to use both together when feasible: the lock provides a solid physical barrier, while the tag gives clear warning and procedural instructions. Some situations may call for tagging alone if a lock cannot be applied, but labeling or simply tagging without a physical lock does not offer the same level of protection, and they are not the same thing.