Who is responsible for the tagout device?

The correct choice highlights that the responsibility for the tagout device lies with whoever maintains the equipment. This individual is typically familiar with the technical aspects and safety protocols associated with the specific equipment and is aware of the lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures necessary to ensure safe maintenance or servicing.

The maintenance personnel must implement tagout devices properly to prevent the accidental re-energization of equipment while maintenance is being performed. Their training and knowledge about the equipment's operational hazards enable them to assess when it is necessary to use a tagout device and how to ensure the safety of all personnel involved.

In contrast, while safety officers, equipment operators, and facilities managers may have roles involving safety in the workplace, their responsibilities do not typically extend to the direct maintenance and tagging of equipment. The equipment operator may be involved in the operational aspects but is not responsible for maintenance tasks. Similarly, a safety officer may enforce or monitor safety protocol compliance but isn't responsible for the specific tagging of equipment; that is firmly under the purview of maintenance personnel who possess the requisite knowledge and experience. Facilities managers may oversee facility operations, including maintenance, but they are not always the individuals directly maintaining or tagging equipment.