Lockout/Tagout: Controlling Hazardous Energy
December 15, 2017
Lockout/Tagout procedures are used to control hazardous energy when making repairs or adjustments to machinery or other types of equipment.
Types of Hazardous Energy:
- Electrical
- Thermal
- Pneumatic
- Chemical
- Stored
- Gravitational
- Hydraulic
- Motion
Risk of not properly utilizing a Lockout/Tagout program:
- Chemical Exposure Burns
- Amputations
- Crushed by/between Fractures
Procedures for locking out equipment:
- Make sure all affected employees are notified.
- Run through normal shutdown procedures.
- Place all controls in the off position, and close all control valves.
- Install Lockout/Tagout devices and tags.
- Release stored energy.
- Verify energy is isolated.
Restart/Release from Lockout/Tagout:
- Inspect the work area: sweep the area for parts, tools, and missing guards. Make sure the equipment is ready to operate.
- Keep others safe: ensure that everyone is clear of the machinery and is aware of the restart.
- Remove locks and tags: each Lockout/Tagout device must be removed by the authorized person who placed the device there.
Three Rules for Lockout/Tagout:
- Have a working knowledge of the equipment you are repairing or maintaining.
- Ensure that everyone involved knows the energy source.
- Use Lockout/Tagout procedures EVERY TIME!
Lockout/Tagout procedures are an important part of your company's maintenance procedures. Working on equipment without utilizing the proper procedures can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. An absence of a Lockout/Tagout program can also lead to OSHA citations. For more information regarding implementing a Lockout/Tagout program or maintaining your current program, visit the AlaCOMP Online Safety Library at www.alacompins.com/safety and visit the Lockout/Tagout index.