Lockout/Tagout Procedure
Basic Lockout/Tagout Steps
To safely apply energy controls to machines or equipment, authorized workers must perform lockout/tagout procedures in the following specific order in accordance with OSHA 1910.147(c)(9) and (d):
- Prepare for shutdown by identifying machines or equipment requiring lockout/tagout
- Notify all affected employees that lockout/tagout will be performed
- Shut down the equipment using normal operating controls
- Identify and isolate all energy sources
- Apply lockout/tagout devices as required to each energy-isolating device.
- Release or block all stored energy (such as hydraulic pressure, compressed springs, or capacitors)
- Verify that the equipment is fully isolated before starting work
Step 1: Preparation for Shutdown
Before applying lockout/tagout devices, the authorized employee must prepare for shutdown by identifying the equipment that needs servicing or maintenance and notifying all affected employees.
After identifying the equipment or machinery requiring lockout/tagout, the authorized person must determine:
- the form and magnitude of the energy that powers the equipment
- the hazards of the energy to be controlled
- the potential energy that may remain when the energy source is disconnected
- the method or means to control each energy source
The authorized person must also label the energy sources so that affected employees will know what equipment is powered by each energy source.
- 1910.147(d)(1)
Preparation for shutdown. Before an authorized or affected employee turns off a machine or equipment, the authorized employee shall have knowledge of the type and magnitude of the energy, the hazards of the energy to be controlled, and the method or means to control the energy.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-1. After isolating energy sources during lockout/tagout, what is the next step in controlling hazardous energy?
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