What is the first step in lubricating an engine or pump?

What is the first step in lubricating an engine or pump?

• A. Shut off, lock out, tag out
• B. Remove drain plug
• C. Record the lubrication in a maintenance log
• D. Make sure all old lubricant is drained

Answer: (A)

Before doing any lubrication work, the most important step is to prevent the equipment from starting unexpectedly. Shutting off the power and applying lockout/tagout ensures all energy sources are isolated and cannot be re-energized while you work. This safety measure protects you from sudden startups, electrical shocks, or moving parts that could cause serious injuries. Once energy is controlled, you can move on to the physical maintenance steps, such as draining old lubricant or removing a drain plug, with much lower risk. Recording the lubrication in a maintenance log is something you do after the work is complete to document what was done, not a prerequisite for starting the task.

Before doing any lubrication work, the most important step is to prevent the equipment from starting unexpectedly. Shutting off the power and applying lockout/tagout ensures all energy sources are isolated and cannot be re-energized while you work. This safety measure protects you from sudden startups, electrical shocks, or moving parts that could cause serious injuries.

Once energy is controlled, you can move on to the physical maintenance steps, such as draining old lubricant or removing a drain plug, with much lower risk. Recording the lubrication in a maintenance log is something you do after the work is complete to document what was done, not a prerequisite for starting the task.