Who is primarily responsible for authorizing tag-out usage and removal?

• A. Authorizing Officer (AO)
• B. Commanding Officer (CO)
• C. Engineering Duty Officer (EDO)
• D. Safety Officer (SO)

Answer: (A)

Tag-out work hinges on a clear line of authority for isolating energy and preventing unexpected reenergization. The one who has the final say to place and remove tag-out devices is the Authorizing Officer. This person verifies that all energy sources are disconnected, residual energy is dissipated, the work area is safely prepared, and all affected personnel are informed. Only after these checks is removal authorized, ensuring the equipment won’t be reenergized until proper reenergization steps are completed. The Commanding Officer has broad responsibility for operations but does not perform the day-to-day tag-out authorization. The Safety Officer oversees safety program compliance, and the Engineering Duty Officer handles technical engineering aspects, but neither carries the formal authorization to implement or remove tag-outs.