What should be done when working on equipment?

When working on equipment, attaching a "DO NOT OPERATE" tag is a critical safety measure. This practice, often referred to as "lockout/tagout," is used to prevent accidental operation of machinery by clearly signaling to all personnel that the equipment is undergoing maintenance or repair. By placing a tag on the equipment, it ensures that no one, including those who might be unaware of the work being performed, can accidentally start the machine, which could lead to serious injuries or accidents. This method enhances workplace safety by communicating that the equipment is not in a safe operating condition.

The other options do not specifically address the necessary precautions required to ensure the safety of personnel working on equipment. For instance, simply turning off lights does not prevent the equipment from being operated. Calling for a supervisor may be necessary in some instances of concern, but it does not directly contribute to the immediate safety measures needed during maintenance. Lastly, using only hand tools may not be relevant, as the type of tools used should be dictated by the specific maintenance tasks rather than solely focusing on hand tools. Therefore, tagging the equipment is the most effective means of ensuring safety while working on it.