What is the purpose of tagging out appliances during maintenance?

The purpose of tagging out appliances during maintenance is primarily to prevent accidental use during repairs. When maintenance personnel tag out an appliance, they are signaling that the equipment is not to be operated until maintenance is complete, thus reducing the risk of injury to workers and preventing potential damage to the equipment. This procedure helps ensure a safe working environment, as it informs all personnel of the current status of the appliance, thereby mitigating the danger of unintentional activation while repairs or inspections are underway. This safety protocol is a crucial component of maintenance best practices and is often mandated by safety regulations.