SECTION
B3: LOCKOUT/TAGOUT
Introduction
Lockout/tagout programs are designed to prevent accidental startup of
machines or equipment, and to prevent the release of stored energy during
servicing or maintenance. Through the use of specific procedures that
involve applying locks and/or tags as direct controls, equipment is isolated
from energy sources and injuries to workers are prevented.
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Scope and Application
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) requirements for the Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout)
apply to all servicing and maintenance of equipment where accidental startup
or unexpected release of energy can occur. Departments involved in these
activities are responsible for the development and implementation of a
lockout/tagout program. Lockout/Tagout requirements do not apply to work
on cord and plug connected equipment.
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Program Description
Evaluation of Machines and Equipment
Machines and equipment should be evaluated to determine what types
of lockout/tagout procedures are necessary. Assistance in this evaluation
is available through the Office of Environmental Health and Safety
(EHS).
Written Lockout/Tagout Program
A written program should be developed that establishes a general
lockout/tagout procedure, including the sequence of events to be followed
for all lock outs. The written program should explain where specific
written lockout procedures are to be used, where tagout alone is permissible,
and what types of locks and tags can be used. The written program
should also provide details for completion of the required annual
inspection of the lockout/tagout procedures. A model program is available
through EHS.
Lockout Hardware
Standardized lockout devices should be provided to maintenance and
service workers. These devices must be able to withstand the environment
in which they will be used. Lockout devices cannot be used for any
other purpose, such as locking toolboxes or personal lockers.
Training
Training requirements are met through general
training sessions offered by EHS and specific training given by
departments. The level of training required varies. Maintenance and
service workers, who would be expected to use lockout procedures as
part of their job, require a higher degree of training than machine
operators, whose work may be affected by the maintenance or servicing
operations.
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Roles and Responsibilities
Department
- Evaluate machines and equipment.
- Develop and maintain a written Lockout/Tagout Program.
- Develop and maintain machine-specific written procedures, where
necessary.
- Evaluate program and procedures at least annually.
- Provide and maintain necessary protective materials and hardware.
- Provide specific training to workers.
Supervisors
- Ensure workers receive general and specific training.
- Ensure workers use lockout/tagout procedures during servicing and
maintenance.
- Ensure lockout devices are not used for any other purpose.
EHS
- Provide general training.
- Provide assistance in evaluation of machines and equipment.
- Assist Departments during periodic audits of the lockout/tagout
program.
Individual
- Attend training.
- Follow appropriate lockout/tagout procedures.
- Use lockout devices only for their intended purpose.
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For More Information
Contact an EHS Safety
Engineer at 258-5294.
A model Lockout/Tagout program is available through EHS.
A Lockout/Tagout Self-Audit Checklist is available through
EHS or may be downloaded either as a PDF
or a customizable Word document.
A copy of OSHA’s regulation, The Control of Hazardous Energy Sources(Lockout/Tagout),
29 CFR 1910.147, is available through EHS.
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