Why should a technician use extreme caution when disconnecting air lines although lockout/tagout procedures are in place?

Using extreme caution when disconnecting air lines is crucial primarily because unrelieved pressure can indeed cause whiplash of the line. When air lines are connected under pressure, disconnecting them improperly can cause the line to whip back violently due to the sudden release of energy. This whipping motion poses a significant risk to the technician, potentially leading to serious injuries.

It is important to approach such situations with care, ensuring that any residual pressure is adequately relieved before disconnection takes place. While factors such as damage to valves, disease risk from compressor oil, or problems with quick-release fittings are valid concerns, the immediate physical danger posed by a high-pressure line snapping back is a more pressing safety issue that technicians must prioritize.