Which of the following practices is essential when performing maintenance on gas turbines?

Implementing lockout/tagout procedures is essential when performing maintenance on gas turbines because these procedures are crucial for ensuring that machines are properly shut off and cannot be started up again before maintenance or repair work is completed. Lockout/tagout procedures protect the workers by helping to prevent accidental energization of the equipment, which could lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

When working on complex machinery like gas turbines, it is vital that all energy sources, such as electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic, are controlled and prevented from releasing their energy unexpectedly. This is accomplished by physically locking the energy isolation devices in the "off" position and tagging them to communicate that maintenance is in progress. This practice is a fundamental safety measure in any industrial setting and is particularly important in environments involving high-risk machinery.

In contrast, working with an open flame, ignoring safety protocols, and using unmarked tools all pose significant risks and compromise safety. These practices could lead to hazardous situations, such as fire, personal injury, or ineffective maintenance, underscoring the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols, including the use of lockout/tagout procedures.