What should be done once maintenance work has been completed and before starting equipment?

Once maintenance work has been completed, it is essential to verify that all tools are removed and that the work is fully completed before starting the equipment. This step ensures safety in the workplace, preventing accidents or injuries that could arise from tools left behind or incomplete tasks. It is critical that all maintenance work is thoroughly checked; any tools remaining in or on the equipment could lead to malfunctions or dangerous situations when the equipment is operated. Ensuring the work is completed also confirms that all procedures and safety protocols for the maintenance have been adhered to, promoting a safe operating environment.

The other options do not prioritize safety or proper procedure: keeping locks intact typically pertains to ensuring equipment is secured during maintenance rather than after its completion, and removing tags without verification could lead to serious safety breaches. Informing employees and supervisors is important for communication, but the immediate step after maintenance involves verifying the workspace and equipment are ready for operation.