Before energizing after maintenance, guards should be ______.

• A. All guards removed
• B. Guards replaced
• C. Guards ignored
• D. Guards painted

Answer: (B)

Safety guards must be in place before energizing after any maintenance. Guards are the barrier that prevents accidental contact with moving parts, such as belts, pulleys, or rotating shafts. After maintenance work is done, guards that were removed to access components are reinstalled and securely fastened so the protective enclosure is complete and interlocks or safety devices operate as designed. If the guards are not replaced, there’s a real risk of injury from exposed moving parts, and it can also violate safety procedures and lockout/tagout requirements.

Leaving guards removed, ignoring their importance, or trying to improve appearance by painting do not provide the necessary protection and are not acceptable safety practices.