What precaution should an engineer take when going beneath equipment?

When an engineer is preparing to go beneath equipment, applying sufficient hand brakes, pulling the emergency cord or power emergency hang-up (PEHU), and ensuring that power is removed are critical safety measures. This practice ensures that the equipment cannot move unexpectedly, significantly reducing the risk of accidents while the engineer is working in a potentially dangerous position.

By securing the equipment with hand brakes, the likelihood of it rolling or shifting is diminished. Engaging the emergency cord serves as an additional layer of safety, effectively creating a communication line that alerts others of the engineer's current status and positions. Removing power eliminates any possibility of electrical hazards or machinery being activated while the engineer is in a vulnerable spot.

This comprehensive approach addresses multiple safety concerns when working under machinery, ensuring that the environment is as safe as possible. Other options may not provide the same level of safety or might introduce unnecessary risks. For instance, using only a manual override switch does not address all aspects of equipment control and power management. Ensuring all power sources are active is inherently unsafe, and while notifying the control center is important, it does not directly protect the engineer under the equipment.