Lockout/Tagout Method

Employees must always use the lockout/tagout method whenever any safeguard must be bypassed or removed (either due to required maintenance, or for any other reason, such as retrieving a tool that somebody dropped into the machine). Employees must always perform lockout/tagout procedures if a worker must place any part of his or her body on the point of operation or related hazardous areas in order to perform work on the machine. Exceptions can be made if normal, small maintenance procedures are performed regularly to ensure safe and consistent machine performance, and provided there is adequate protection for all employees involved in such minor tasks. OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.147 contains details about proper lockout/tagout procedures, as well as a template for a company's minimum performance requirements for using the lockout/tagout method.

Lockout refers to the placement of a device used to lock machinery in a position to prevent accidental energizing during maintenance. Tagout refers to the placement of a highly visible warning tag, which indicates that a machine should not be used because it is currently undergoing maintenance or repair. Using this method properly will prevent accidental and unknowing activation of the machine, thereby greatly decreasing the chance of injury or death. The preferred action is a lockout, as it is more secure and effective than a visual warning. However, if a lockout is not possible, a tagout is an acceptable substitute.

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