Which statement best differentiates lockout and tagout?

• A. Lockout physically prevents energizing
• B. Tagout physically prevents energizing
• C. Lockout labels equipment
• D. Tagout ensures maintenance complete

Answer: (A)

Lockout is about a physical barrier that actually prevents the energy source from being energized. By applying a device like a padlock or hasp to the isolation point, the system cannot be re-energized until the lock is removed by the authorized person. Tagout, on the other hand, uses a warning tag to communicate that maintenance is in progress, but it does not physically stop energizing—the equipment could still be energized if someone ignores or bypasses the tag. So the defining difference is that lockout provides a tangible, irreversible barrier, while tagout relies on human adherence to the procedure. The other statements miss that distinction: a tagout does not physically prevent energizing, labeling is not the lockout’s purpose, and tagout doesn’t guarantee maintenance is complete.