Final answer:
The lockout/tagout standard, under 29 CFR 1910.147(a)(3)(i), aims to prevent accidental startup or release of hazardous energy during maintenance, safeguarding employees from injury.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of the lockout/tagout standard, according to 29 CFR 1910.147(a)(3)(i), is to prevent accidental or unexpected startup or release of stored energy that could cause injury to employees during service or maintenance activities. The correct answer to the question is C) To prevent accidental startup of machinery during maintenance. This Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation requires that specific practices and procedures be followed to disable machinery or equipment, thereby preventing the release of hazardous energy while employees perform maintenance and servicing activities.
Lockout/tagout procedures involve placing a lock or tag on the energy-isolating device of machinery to ensure that the equipment cannot be operated until the lock or tag is removed. This regulation is intended to protect workers from harm in the workplace by ensuring that machines remain inoperative while they are at risk of unintentional energization or the release of stored energy.