If a worker is not present, who can remove their lock?

The correct answer is that no one can remove a worker's lock if they are not present. This concept is rooted in the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, which are crucial for ensuring safety during maintenance and repair work. The purpose of these procedures is to prevent accidental machine start-up or the release of hazardous energy that could cause injury to workers.

The integrity of a lock or tag placed by a worker is paramount to maintaining their safety. Allowing anyone other than the lock's owner to remove it could lead to dangerous situations, such as the unexpected activation of equipment. This principle is designed to protect all workers by ensuring that machinery remains in a safe state while maintenance is performed. Thus, the only time a lock can be removed is when the worker is present and verifies that it is safe to do so, or under strict protocols in the case of an emergency, typically requiring management or safety oversight.