Who is authorized to remove a lockout/tagout?

The correct choice emphasizes that the lockout/tagout procedure is designed to ensure the safety of workers by preventing the accidental energization of machinery during maintenance or service. Only the individual who installed the lockout/tagout is authorized to remove it, as they are the person most familiar with the specific conditions and risks associated with that lockout. This ensures accountability and maintains the integrity of the safety protocol, as the installer is responsible for ensuring that the equipment is indeed safe to operate again.

In practice, allowing only the installer to remove the lockout helps prevent potential hazards that could arise if someone else removed it without fully understanding the situation. This protocol is critical in promoting a culture of safety in the workplace, ensuring that procedures are followed correctly and that all personnel remain protected from unintended machine startup or release of stored energy.