What does a red tag on equipment signify?

• A. The item has passed a standard inspection.
• B. The item is new and ready for use.
• C. The item is designated for electrical use only.
• D. The item is out of service or not safe to use until repaired or inspected.

Answer: (D)

Red tagging signals that equipment is out of service and not safe to use until it has been repaired or inspected. It’s a visual safety cue used in tag-out procedures: someone identifies a fault, places the red tag with their name and date, and the item must be taken out of circulation until a qualified person verifies it’s safe again. This prevents accidental energizing or use of defective gear. The other options describe items that are ready, new, or simply marked for electrical use, which don’t convey the safety restriction conveyed by a red tag.