What is the primary purpose of lockout/tagout procedures in air compressor maintenance?

The primary purpose of lockout/tagout procedures in air compressor maintenance is to prevent unintended startup during maintenance. These procedures are critical safety protocols used to ensure that machinery is properly shut down and in a non-operational state before any maintenance work is performed. This significantly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries caused by equipment unexpectedly turning on while technicians are servicing it.

By implementing lockout/tagout, workers can effectively isolate energy sources, such as electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic, ensuring there is no energy flow that could inadvertently activate the compressor. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of safety and risk mitigation in maintenance tasks, making it essential for protecting personnel during repair and service activities.