What is meant by 'lockout' in electrical operations?

The term 'lockout' in electrical operations refers to a temporary procedure for isolating electrical systems to prevent accidental re-energization during maintenance or repair work. The purpose of lockout is to ensure the safety of personnel working on electrical systems, allowing them to perform their tasks without the risk of electrical shock or other hazards. This procedure often involves physically securing a switch or circuit breaker in the off position, using lockout devices or tags to communicate its status clearly.

While the other options mention various concepts, they do not accurately capture the essence of lockout in electrical safety practices. For example, securing tree branches or evaluating tree safety are unrelated to electrical operations. A permanent operation requiring manual closure of line reclosers involves different procedures that don't reflect the safety measures associated with lockout practices. The correct understanding of lockout is crucial, as it significantly enhances operational safety in electrical work environments.