Release of Stored Energy

After the application of lockout or tagout devices to energy-isolating devices, all potentially hazardous stored or residual energy must be relieved, disconnected, restrained, and otherwise rendered safe.

If there is a possibility of re-accumulation of stored energy to a hazardous level, verification of isolation must be continuous until maintenance is completed, or until the possibility of such accumulation no longer exists.

Verification of Isolation

Prior to working on machines that have been locked out or tagged out, the authorized employee must verify that isolation and de-energization of the machine have been accomplished.

Release from Lockout or Tagout

Before lockout or tagout devices are removed and energy is restored to the machine, procedures must be followed and actions taken by the authorized employee(s) to ensure the following:

• The machine
  • The work area must be inspected to ensure that nonessential items have been removed and to ensure that machine components are operationally intact.
• Employees
  • The work area must be checked to ensure that all employees have been safely positioned or removed.
  • After lockout or tagout devices have been removed and before a machine is started, affected employees must be notified that the lockout or tagout devices have been removed.

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