Is an employer required to shut down machinery that could cause injury during maintenance?

An employer is indeed required to shut down machinery that could potentially cause injury during maintenance. This obligation stems from OSHA's regulations aimed at ensuring worker safety. The locking out or tagging out of machinery—known as Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)—is a critical safety procedure that prevents the unexpected energization or start-up of machines while they are being serviced or maintained.

By shutting down the machinery, employers effectively eliminate the risk of accidental injury from moving parts, electrical hazards, or other dangerous conditions that could arise if the equipment were mistakenly activated while a worker is performing maintenance tasks. This requirement is part of a broader effort to create a safe working environment and is essential for adhering to OSHA standards that mandate safe practices when interacting with potentially hazardous equipment.

In contrast, the other options do not align with safety regulations. For example, stating that machinery should only be shut down if a worker requests it undermines the employer's responsibility to proactively ensure safety. Similarly, suggesting that the requirement depends on the type of machinery could lead to inconsistencies in safety practices, as all machinery should be treated with the same level of caution during maintenance procedures.