What must be done just before beginning work on pumps or electrical machinery during the lockout process?

Before beginning work on pumps or electrical machinery as part of the lockout process, it is essential to ensure that the equipment is not operational. This means that trying to start the equipment is a vital step; it confirms that the lockout procedures have been properly implemented. By attempting to start the machinery, workers can check that the lockout mechanism has successfully prevented energy from being applied to the equipment. This measure ensures the safety of workers, confirming that machinery will not unexpectedly start during maintenance or repair work, thus adhering to strict safety protocols.

This step is crucial in maintaining a safe work environment, as it serves as a final verification that all energy sources have been effectively controlled before conducting any work.