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.

This training is intended to provide a general overview of Lock-out/Tagout 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.
• 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 lockout/tag-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.
• 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.
• 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.

Unexpected start-up of the equipment

Release of stored 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.
applying lock-out/tag-out guidelines

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

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
verification

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

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

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

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
According 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?
Electrical
Mechanical
Hydraulic
Chemical
What 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