Final answer:
implementation, and enforcement of procedures for locking out equipment, using lockout/tagout devices, ensuring equipment can be locked out, providing training, and conducting regular inspections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is that an energy control program, as outlined by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), is designed to prevent the unexpected startup or release of stored energy during service and maintenance activities.
This is achieved by establishing procedures for shutting down, isolating, blocking, and securing machines. These procedures must ensure that machines are effectively and safely de-energized.
An energy control program often includes elements such as:
- Developing, implementing, and enforcing energy control procedures.
- Using lockout/tagout devices for equipment that can be locked out.
- Ensuring that new or overhauled equipment is capable of being locked out.
- Training employees on the lockout/tagout procedure and the hazards related to the controlled energy.
- Inspecting the energy control procedure periodically (at least annually).
Proper lockout/tagout practices and procedures should be an integral part of any safety management system, and compliance with them is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries.