Lockout / Tagout – Procedure

Lockout / Tagout – Procedure

1 Preparation:

Inspect the equipment or system to locate and identify the type, magnitude, and hazards of the energy involved, and the energy control/isolating devices available.

2 Notification:

Notify all affected people that a lockout/tagout will be taking place and the reason why.

3 Shutdown/Isolation:

Shut off the switches, valves or other isolating devices so that equipment can be isolated from all potential hazardous energy sources.

4 Device Application:

Place individually assigned locks together with a tag on the energy isolating devices to ensure that a “safe” or “off” position is maintained. Keys for locks are to remain with the person performing the work. If several people are involved, each person is to have his own lock and key.

5 Release of Stored Energy:

All potential stored or residual energy must be relieved, restrained or otherwise rendered safe.

6 Verification of Isolation:

Testing and Verification is required to verify the effectiveness of each lockout/tagout device after checking that no personnel are exposed. After returning controls to the neutral or off position, the equipment is now locked out.

7 Restart After Work Completed:

Leave all lockout/tagout devices in-place until the work is completely finished. After servicing and/or maintenance has been completed and the equipment is ready to be returned to service, inspect for the following:

• All tools have been removed and guards reinstalled.
• A check of the area around the equipment or system has been made to insure no personnel will be exposed during reenergizing.
• All lockout/tagout devices have been removed and the equipment has been test operated.

8 Tagout Where Lockout IS NOT Possible:

If an energy isolating device is not capable of being locked out, tags are permitted only if the tagout program can be demonstrated to provide equivalent protection to a lockout program. The tagout procedures must follow the procedures outlined in section 4.1. Thorough documented training of all affected personnel is required.

When using the tagout procedure, additional safety measures must be considered, such as removing fuses, blocking control switches, opening extra disconnecting devices or removing valve handles. Tagout shall meet the following:

• They must clearly indicate that the operation or movement of the energy isolating device is prohibited.
• If not capable of being affixed directly to the lock device (valve, switch, etc.), locate as close as practical to the device. It must be clearly visible within proximity of the device.
• Following the application of tagout devices, all potentially hazardous stored or residual energy shall be relieved, disconnected, restrained, or otherwise rendered safe.
• Prior to starting work, the employee who will perform the work shall verify that isolation and deenergization have been accomplished.
• Attach tags to all points where energy control could be activated–such as start buttons, circuit breakers, lockout devices, valves or blanks.

9 Tagout Removal:

Before the tagout device is removed, and energy restored, the authorized person ensures:

The work area has been checked to ensure all people are safely positioned.

Affected personnel are notified the tagout device is being or has been removed and the equipment is ready to be operated.

Each tagout device is to be removed only by the employee who originally applied the device.