What condition must be met for an 'affected employee'?

An 'affected employee' is defined as a worker who operates equipment that may be locked out during maintenance or servicing. This designation is crucial because affected employees have a direct interest in the safe operation of machinery and the potential for lockout/tagout procedures to impact their work environment. Understanding this concept is important in an OSHA context because it relates to ensuring safety when it comes to energy control during maintenance activities.

Affected employees need to be aware of the lockout/tagout procedures to recognize the risks associated with the operation of machinery that is undergoing maintenance. This awareness is essential for their safety and the safety of their coworkers, as it helps to prevent any accidental re-energization of equipment that could lead to significant injury or even fatality. The training provided to these individuals often focuses on recognizing when machines are under service and the necessary precautions to take when they are operating near equipment that might be locked out.

The other choices do not accurately define the role of an affected employee. For instance, saying they may operate equipment regardless of lockout procedures undermines the purpose of those safety protocols. Similarly, suggesting they must always leave the workplace during lockout or that they are not involved when machines are serviced does not reflect the essential role they play in understanding and acknowledging lock