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LOCKOUT/TAGOUT

Introduction

Employees who service or maintain machines or equipment may be at risk due to the sudden start-up or release of stored energy from this equipment. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has issued a lockout/tagout standard known as the Control of Hazardous Energy Sources Standard, to protect workers. The basis of this standard is a systemized approach to servicing or maintaining certain equipment. It includes development of a written program, detailing procedures for disabling energy sources, obtaining lockout/tagout devices and training of workers.

Applicable Regulations

29 CFR 1910.147 -The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout)

Summary of Requirements

• The Lockout/Tagout Plan is the written policy and guidelines for this standard. All affected employees must follow the procedures in this plan.
• Employer must provide training for the implementation of this program to employees authorized to do maintenance work on hazardous machinery.
• Each authorized individual will be issued his/her own padlock and key. Some individuals who work on equipment with multiple sources of energy may require several locks. Multiple lock devices are used when more than one worker is involved in a lockout procedure.
• The following procedures will be followed when working in lockout/tagout situations:
1. Determine the types of stored energy of the equipment to be serviced;
2. Shut down machine;
3. Shutoff all energy supplies;
4. Apply locks and tags;
5. Release stored energy;
6. Verify that machine cannot by turned on;
7. Perform the service;
8. Inspect the work area for hazards;
9. Return machine to service.

Training

The standard requires that each affected and authorized employee be trained in the purpose and function of the lockout/tagout program. Training includes recognition of hazardous energy sources and knowledge required for proper usage of energy controls.

Retraining is required whenever there is a change in job assignments, machinery, or procedures.

Reporting

All incidents (electrical shocks, etc.) involving electrical energy must be reported to the Employer immediately.

Inspections

An annual inspection of the energy control procedure is required. The inspection includes a review of the procedures being used and employee knowledge of the program. Supervisors are responsible for evaluating energy control procedures in their department.

Recordkeeping

Records of training must be maintained by the Employer

Written Program

A written program is required by the standard. It must establish the procedures to be followed for control of hazardous energy. The Lockout/Tagout Plan is the official policy on compliance with this standard.

Revised 03/01