Under what circumstances should a maintenance person verify proper tag attachment and switch/valve positioning?

Verifying proper tag attachment and switch/valve positioning is critical before performing maintenance operations to ensure safety and compliance with standard operating procedures. This step is essential to confirm that the equipment is properly isolated from power sources or other systems, preventing accidental activation or the release of hazardous materials during maintenance work. By ensuring that everything is marked and positioned correctly at this stage, the maintenance person can minimize risks and enhance workplace safety for themselves and their coworkers.

This verification process is part of locking out/tagging out procedures, which are established to protect workers from unexpected energization or startup of machines and equipment. Conducting this verification prior to maintenance also allows for the proper identification of the systems involved and ensures that all necessary precautions are in place. Subsequent actions, such as inspections, training, or reviewing completed work, do not require this specific verification of tags and positions, which is why this option stands out as the appropriate circumstance for such checks.