All switches sources, disconnections, jumpers, and taps shall be what?

• A. Left as is
• B. Opened and tagged out
• C. Visibly labeled only
• D. Inspected and tested

Answer: (B)

Isolating energy sources requires both physically disconnecting them and communicating that isolation. The proper approach is to open the switches, disconnections, jumpers, and taps to break the circuit and apply a tag indicating the equipment is de-energized and must not be operated. This combination—opened and tagged out—provides both a physical barrier and a clear warning to prevent accidental re-energization during work. Merely leaving equipment as it is offers no protection, and labeling alone does not stop energization. Inspection and testing are important for confirming safety after isolation, but they follow the initial isolation step rather than replace it.