According to OSHA following proper lockout / tagout procedures can prevent an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries every year. That’s why it’s so important to learn how to properly lockout / tagout and avoid unnecessary risk.
- Start by notifying all employees about the required lockout.
- Shut down equipment using the normal stopping procedure.
- Locate and isolate equipment from all energy sources.
- Release any stored energy.
- Lockout all switches and controls with assigned locks and tags.
- After ensuring that no personnel is exposed, try to operate the controls to make sure the equipment is dead.
- Remember to return the equipment to the “off” state after the test.
- You can then perform your work.
- Remove the lockout device.
- And when your work is completed, notify all employees.
Help to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace with proper lockout / tagout procedures. Be smart and stay safe.