Lockout/Tagout Requirements (29 CFR 1910.147)

The Control of Hazardous Energy standard, better known as lockout/tagout (LOTO), protects workers who service or maintain machines that could unexpectedly start up or release stored energy (29 CFR 1910.147).

What the standard requires

• An energy control program made up of written procedures, employee training, and periodic inspections (1910.147(c)(1)).
• Written, machine-specific procedures that spell out the steps for shutting down, isolating, blocking, and securing each machine (1910.147(c)(4)).
• Lockout over tagout: if equipment can be locked out, lockout must be used. Tagout alone is allowed only when it gives full employee protection (1910.147(c)(3)).
• Devices that are durable, standardized, substantial, and identify the employee who applied them (1910.147(c)(5)).
• Periodic inspection at least annually of each energy control procedure by an authorized employee other than the ones using it (1910.147(c)(6)).
• Training for authorized employees (who perform LOTO), affected employees (who operate the equipment), and other employees in the area (1910.147(c)(7)).

The six steps of lockout

1. Prepare: know the type and amount of energy and how to control it.
2. Shut down the machine using normal stopping procedures.
3. Isolate all energy sources: electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, thermal, chemical.
4. Apply lockout or tagout devices.
5. Release or restrain stored energy, such as springs, capacitors, and elevated parts.
6. Verify isolation by attempting a normal start-up before beginning work.

Exceptions

The standard doesn't apply to cord-and-plug equipment when unplugging it controls the hazard and the plug stays under the exclusive control of the employee doing the work. Minor tool changes and adjustments during normal production may also be excluded when other effective protection is in place (1910.147(a)(2)).

CiteSafe can identify missing locks and tags or unguarded energy sources from a photo of a disconnect or machine.