Most accidents are caused by the uncontrolled release of hazardous energy. Many of these accidents can be prevented by proper lock-out/tag-out procedures.

OSHA’s standard is designed to prevent needless deaths and serious injury to workers by controlling hazardous energy.

Introduction

Training Overview This training is intended to provide a general overview of

Lock-out/Tag-out Systems used in today’s workplace. This awareness information will not provide specific

direction in using lock-out/tag-out in confined space rescue operations.

Course Objectives• Define what is lock-out/tag-out• Determine when lock-out/tag-out

should be used• Define energy as it applies to this

area• Apply lock-out/tag-out guidelines• Describe procedures for

removing lock-out/tag-out

Lock-Out• A disconnect switch, circuit breaker, valve

or other energy isolating mechanism is put in a safe or “off” position.

• A device is often placed over the energy isolating mechanism to hold it in a safe position.

• A lock is attached so the equipment cannot be energized.

Tag-Out• In a tag-out, the energy

isolating device is placed in a safe position and a written warning is attached to it. All lock-out/tag- out materials are supplied by the employer.

When• Lock-out/tag-out is

necessary whenever you are performing service or maintenance around any machine where you can be injured.

• When placing any portion of your body in a position that may be caught in moving machinery

• Any work in or near electrically charged machinery.

Mechanism of Injury Unexpected start-up of the equipment Release of stored energy

What is Energy? Energy can be defined in

many areas. For the purposes of these guidelines, energy is defined as the following:

Energy is the movement or the possibility of movement Whenever the power switch is “on” or “off”, energy as some sort

is always present in any powered equipment Energy can come from the force caused by the motion of an

object, or potential energy, or force stored in an object that is not moving.

Preparation for Shut Down Before you turn off any

equipment, in order to lock or tag it out, you must know: The type and amount of

energy that powers it The hazard of that energy How the energy can be

controlled

applying lock-out/tag-out guidelines

Preparation for Shut Downapplying lock-out/tag-out guidelines

Shut the system down by using its operating controls. Follow the proper procedure which is right for that

equipment. Assistance from employees knowledgeable with the

equipment

• Operate all energy isolating devices so the equipment is isolated from its energy source

• Be sure to isolate all energy sources, secondary power supply, as well as the main one

• Never pull an electrical switch while it is under load• Never remove a fuse instead of disconnecting

Equipment Isolation

Make sure all danger areas are cleared of personnel

Verify that the main disconnect switch or breaker can’t be moved to “on” position

Press all start buttons and other controls on the equipment

Shut off all machine controls when testing is finished

Equipment Isolationverification

Application ofLock-Out/Tag-Out

Isolating devices are to be locked, tagged or both

Use only standardized devices supplied by your employer

If tags are used instead of locks, attach them at the same point as a lock or as close as possible

If no tags available, post a firefighter at the energy source

Control Stored Energy To guard against stored

energy residual; do any of the following. Inspect the system Relieve trapped pressure Release tension on

springs Block or brace parts that

may fall Gravity

Bleed the lines and leave vent port open

Process piping systems and close valves

Removing Lock-Out/Tag-Out

Contact Incident Command Remove only the tags you put in place Make sure equipment is safe to operate Remove all tools from work area Safeguard all employees

Conduct a head count to assure everyone is clear of the equipment and make notification that lock-out/tag-out is being removed

Follow a check list if there are required steps to re-energize the system

FactoidsAccording to OSHA, how many workplace deaths are attributed to improper use of lock-out/tag-out annually?

According to OSHA, 2% of workplace deaths could be avoided by proper implementation of lock-out/tag-out

procedures.

What are the four major types of energy sources which require lock-out/tag-out?

ElectricalMechanicalHydraulicChemical

FactoidsWhat is the last step of the lock-out/tag-out procedure?

Verify the isolation of energy and assure stored energy has been released.

How often should lock-out/tag-out procedures be inspected?

They must be reviewed annually in the workplace.

This presentation shared by Snohomish County Fire District 7