What is the main responsibility of the authorized employee during lockout/tagout procedures?

The main responsibility of the authorized employee during lockout/tagout procedures is to maintain the integrity and security of the lockout procedure. This entails ensuring that all energy sources are properly isolated and rendered inoperative, thereby effectively preventing accidental machine start-up or release of stored energy during maintenance or servicing activities. The authorized employee is tasked with applying locks and tags to machinery, confirming that they are functional and will remain in place until the work is completed. By prioritizing the integrity of the lockout process, the authorized employee directly contributes to creating a safe working environment and minimizes the risk of injury during repairs or maintenance.

Other options might suggest roles that are not primarily focused on the critical aspects of lockout/tagout procedures. For instance, supervising maintenance staff or operating machinery conflicts with the essential responsibilities tied directly to ensuring safety and preventing hazardous situations. Reporting actions of other employees, while important in some contexts, does not relate directly to the core responsibilities associated with effective lockout/tagout protocols.