Which of the following describes proper PPE and lockout/tagout practices when servicing refrigeration equipment?

• A. Use safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing; follow lockout/tagout procedures to isolate power and prevent unexpected energization; verify zero energy before work.
• B. Wear only safety glasses.
• C. Lockout/tagout is optional.
• D. Wear hearing protection only.

Answer: (A)

When servicing refrigeration equipment, protecting workers from multiple hazards and controlling energy sources are both essential. The proper PPE provides a barrier against common risks: safety glasses shield eyes from refrigerant splashes, debris, or sparks; gloves protect hands from cold surfaces, sharp edges, or chemical exposure; and protective clothing helps prevent skin contact with oils or refrigerants and reduces injury from spills or splashes. At the same time, lockout/tagout procedures are the failsafe that prevents the equipment from being energized while work is being done. This means identifying all energy sources, isolating and de-energizing them, applying locks or tags so no one can re-energize the system, and then verifying that there is zero energy present before beginning work. Verifying zero energy ensures electrical circuits are dead, stored energy is relieved, and pressures or other energy forms are neutralized, so there’s no unexpected release or movement during maintenance. Together, proper PPE and a disciplined lockout/tagout process address both personal protection and the control of hazardous energy, which is why this approach is the correct standard.