What is the correct procedure for locking out a crane for maintenance under LOTO requirements?

• A. Isolate energy sources, lock the control switches, apply tag, test to verify zero energy, and authorize only trained personnel to perform maintenance.
• B. Switch off power and walk away.
• C. Disable alarms and continue.
• D. Only tag without isolation.

Answer: (A)

Lockout/Tagout for crane maintenance centers on making the crane completely inoperative and unable to energize or release stored energy while work is done. The correct approach is to systematically isolate all energy sources, apply a lock to the control switches or disconnects, attach a tag identifying the responsible person and the maintenance task, verify zero energy by testing that no electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical energy can cause movement or release, and ensure that only trained, authorized personnel are allowed to perform the maintenance and remove the lockout. This sequence prevents accidental re-energization and protects workers from unexpected crane motion or load release.

Switching off power and walking away omits isolation and prevents any guarantee that the equipment stays de-energized. Disabling alarms bypasses safety controls, creating a high-risk situation. Tagging alone without isolating energy leaves the system capable of being energised or re-energised, which defeats the purpose of LOTO.