OSHA defines a lockout device as “Any device that uses positive means, such as a lock, blank flanges and bolted slip blinds, to hold an energy-isolating device in a safe position, thereby preventing the energizing of machinery or equipment.” An energy-isolating device refers to any device that physically prevents the transmission/release of energy, such as a manual electrical circuit breaker, a manually operated switch, etc.
Lockout/tagout procedures are crucial to ensuring worker safety. These require that machinery or equipment be locked before any service or maintenance is carried out. Such practices prevent accidental release of energy that can start/energize a machine or equipment unexpectedly, leading to workplace injuries that can be rather severe or even fatal.
Lockout tagout programs require the use of organizing and safety tools such as padlock stations, circuit breakers, switch lockout devices, padlocks, and safety tags among other things.
Yes. The OSHA standard 1910.147 requires that hazardous energy be controlled through a lockout/tagout program. The standard covers the servicing and maintenance operations where any unexpected energization or starting up of the machine/equipment being serviced or a sudden release of stored energy can lead to employee injuries.
The standard is fairly detailed and establishes minimum performance requirements for the control of hazardous energy. It also prescribes employer and employee responsibilities as well as lists exceptions to the various sections detailed in the standard.
Exceptions to OSHA’s lockout/tagout requirements include construction and agriculture sector-specific requirements covered in their respective standards, power generation, transmission, and distribution installations. Electrical hazards related to electric-utilization installations are also excluded as these are covered under 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S. The CFR 1910.147 does apply to oil and gas well drilling and servicing as well.
Other than this, several sections in the OSHA lockout/tagout standard have exceptions listed along with the requirement. These exceptions range from minor servicing activities and cord-and-plug connected electric equipment to hot tap operations and energy control procedures.
OSHA does specify the requirement that employees be trained to understand the purpose and function of and gain the knowledge and skills to execute the energy control program. While the standard does not mention annual training, it does require annual inspections of the lockout/tagout program.
Retraining is required when there is a change in job assignment, machine, equipment, processes, or energy control program. Retraining is also necessary when the periodic inspection or employer judgment reveals deviations or inadequacies concerning the energy control procedures. You may find detailed information about OSHA training requirements specific to lockout/tagout here.
The responsibility to execute a lockout/tagout and free a piece of equipment from it lies with an authorized employee. According to OSHA lockout/tagout standard, an authorized employee locks out or tags out machines/equipment for servicing or maintenance. In some instances, an affected employee could become an authorized employee if his/her duties include performing servicing or maintenance of the machine/equipment to be locked out.
Finding a lock or a safety tag on or around a machine in your work area should tell you that the machine is not meant to be used until otherwise communicated and the tag/lock removed by the authorized employee. Keeping up with the OSHA requirements, you should report any potential hazards, conditions, practices, or accidents associated with the lockout/tagout to your supervisor.
