What does a tag attached to deenergized equipment indicate?

A tag attached to deenergized equipment serves as a critical safety measure, indicating that the equipment cannot be energized until the tag is removed. This tag is often part of a lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure, which is designed to ensure that machinery is properly shut off and not able to be started up again until maintenance or repair work is complete. The presence of the tag alerts all personnel that the equipment requires attention and that it is unsafe to operate until the necessary steps are taken to safely remove the tag, which usually involves confirming that work has been completed and that it is safe to restore power. This protocol helps prevent accidental energization, protecting workers from potential hazards associated with unexpected equipment operation.