Lockout or Tagout?

If an energy-isolating device is capable of being locked out, the employer's energy control program must utilize lockout, unless the employer can demonstrate that a tagout system will provide full employee protection.

If an energy-isolating device cannot be locked out, it must be tagged out.

When a tagout device is used on an energy-isolating device that is capable of being locked out, the tagout device must be attached at the same location that the lockout device would have been attached, and the employer must demonstrate that the tagout program provides a level of safety equivalent to that obtained by using a lockout program.

In demonstrating that a tagout program is as safe as a lockout program, the employer must demonstrate full compliance with all tagout-related provisions of 29 CFR §1910.147, together with any additional means necessary to provide the equivalent safety available from the use of a lockout device.

"Additional means" to demonstrate full employee protection include the following:

• The removal of an isolating circuit element
• Blocking of a controlling switch
• Opening of an extra disconnecting device
• The removal of a valve handle to reduce the likelihood of inadvertent energization

Please note that after January 2, 1990, whenever machinery requires replacement, major repair, renovation, or modification, and whenever new machines are installed, energy-isolating devices for such machinery must be designed to accept a lockout device.

To learn more about Lockout/Tagout visit our Lockout/Tagout Online Training web page.