Lockout/Tagout Safety #1
Lockout/Tagout helps safeguard employees from hazardous energy while they are performing servicing or maintenance on machines and equipment. The standard identifies the practices and procedures necessary to shut down and lock out or tag out machines and equipment, requires that employees receive training in their role in the lockout/tagout program, and mandates that periodic inspections be conducted to maintain or enhance the energy control program.
Definitions:
Lock-out- Physically placing a lock or locking device onto a piece of machinery or equipment to prevent the accidental energizing of said equipment, usually while maintenance is being performed.
Tag-out- Placing a warning tag or steering wheel covers on the locked out equipment to notify others that the equipment is locked out.
Lockout device: a lock used by an authorized employee to disable a piece of machinery or equipment. This lock must be unique, both in appearance (color) and the keying (each mechanic must have his own lock and key that only his key fits). Lockout devices examples:
- Locks
- Blocks
- Chains
- Multi-lock Hasp
- Wheel Valve Cover
- Ball Valve Cover
- Wheel Chocks
- Cylinder Braces
- Vehicle Body Braces
- Jack Stands
Lockout/Tagout must be used when servicing or maintaining equipment where hazardous energy exists, unexpected start-up could occur, employees are required to remove or bypass a safety device, or an employee is required to place any part of their body in harm’s way.
If you see that something that has a Lockout/Tagout on it, it is important that you do not touch it or remove it.
