![]() They must receive annual training in the control of hazardous energy, and must be retrained when there is a change in job assignments, machines, or energy control procedures.Īuthorized employees are the only employees allowed to apply locks or tags and perform work on isolated equipment. OSHA requires that employers train workers so they understand the purpose and function of an energy control program and its lockout and tagout procedures.Īuthorized employees are those who receive training in recognition of applicable hazardous energy sources, type and magnitude of the energy available, and methods and means for energy isolation and control. Both locks and tags must be constructed to withstand the environment in which they are used Lock and Tag Training They may have different warnings printed on them, such as ‘Do Not Operate’, ‘Do Not Start’, ‘Do Not Open’, ‘Do Not Close’, or ‘Do Not Energize’. Tags associated with lockout/tagout activities are red, to communicate ‘danger’. This usually includes the person’s name and contact information, such as a phone number. The identity of the person who placed the tag must be described on the tag. When it is not possible to lock a de-energized energy source, only a tag may be used, but only if there is another way to ensure that no one can accidentally energize the system. Locks and tags must never be ignored or removed by anyone other than the individual who placed them. Locks should be inspected to ensure they are standardized and durable.Įach lock must be keyed differently so no more than one person’s key will open it. Locks used for isolating energy sources are required to be dedicated, marked, and not used for any other purpose. They must hold the energy isolating devices in a “safe” or “off” position. Locks serve as barriers to keep equipment from starting up and injuring someone who may be working on that piece of machinery. If not possible, the tag must be near the lock and immediately obvious. If possible, tags should be fastened to the same point as the lock. They must be made of materials that can withstand the environmental conditions they may encounter, such as rain or snow, and they must bear the name of the authorized person placing the tag on the equipment. Tags must be securely attached, legible and understandable. Because of this, tags should only act as temporary warnings until the hazardous equipment can be properly locked. Locks and tags serve different purposes, however, and should be used accordingly.īy themselves, tags cannot sufficiently prevent an individual from starting a piece of equipment while another individual is servicing it. ![]() In addition to ensuring that a machine has been isolated or disconnected from its power source, lock and tag procedures establish safe boundaries to protect workers. Lockout/tagout refers to specific practices and procedures that safeguard employees from the unexpected startup of machinery and equipment, or the release of hazardous energy, during service or maintenance activities. This standard requires the application of markings and barriers that prevent unauthorized persons from energizing and operating equipment.Įnergy in any form becomes hazardous when it builds to a certain level or is released inadvertently or unexpectedly. It is commonly referred to as the lockout/tagout (LOTO), or energy isolation standard. To protect you from the serious hazards posed by the unexpected start-up or operation of equipment during repair or maintenance, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has established a Control of Hazardous Energy standard.
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