Which item is described as a physical device attached to energy sources that prevents re-energization until removed by authorized personnel?

• A. A boundary to keep people away from hazards.
• B. A limit switch that stops motion at a preset position.
• C. The lockout device in LOTO.
• D. A spreader plate used to distribute load across multiple points and prevent hardware deformation.

Answer: (C)

Lockout devices are physical devices placed on energy sources to hold equipment in a safe, de-energized state. They prevent re-energization until the component is removed by the person who applied it, ensuring that maintenance or servicing cannot be interrupted by someone turning the power back on. This directly matches the described item, which is all about isolating energy and requiring authorized removal. The other options describe tools for different safety needs: a boundary is for keeping people away from hazards, a limit switch stops motion at a set point, and a spreader plate distributes load to avoid hardware deformation. None of those prevent re-energization of energy sources.