What is energy isolation and how is it applied in robot systems?

• A. A method to increase energy efficiency by optimizing power trees.
• B. A technique to measure electric energy in circuits.
• C. A policy to shut down robots at end of shift only.
• D. Prevents energy sources from delivering power; achieved through lockout devices, disconnect switches, and tagout.

Answer: (D)

Energy isolation means preventing energy sources from delivering power to the robot so it cannot energize or move while someone is working on it. In robot systems, this covers electrical energy and other stored energies like hydraulic, pneumatic pressure, gravity, springs, or any energy that could be released unintentionally. The standard way to achieve this is by using lockout devices, disconnect switches, and tagout. A lockout device physically blocks the energy source so it cannot be turned back on; a disconnect switch removes electrical power; and tagout provides a visible warning and identifies who is responsible for the lockout. These measures together create a safe, verifiable state before maintenance begins, preventing unexpected startup or energy release.

Options that describe efficiency improvements, energy measurement, or shutting down only at the end of a shift don’t address the preventive, controlled isolation of energy sources, which is the essence of energy isolation.