What does deenergizing equipment help to eliminate?

Deenergizing equipment is a critical safety practice that effectively helps to eliminate hazardous energy sources. When equipment is deenergized, it ensures that all potential energy sources, such as electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic energy, are removed or controlled, reducing the risk of accidental energization during maintenance or servicing. This practice is part of lockout/tagout procedures, which play a crucial role in protecting workers from unexpected start-up or release of stored energy that could lead to injuries or fatalities.

While deenergizing equipment significantly mitigates risks associated with hazardous energy sources, it does not eliminate all workplace injuries, nor does it completely eliminate all electrical risks or the need for personal protective equipment (PPE). Electrical risks can still exist even when equipment is deenergized; for instance, residual voltage or capacitive discharge can still pose dangers. Moreover, PPE is often necessary in various situations regardless of equipment deenergization, as it provides an additional layer of protection against possible hazards that may arise in the workplace.