Developing a Lockout/Tagout Procedure

Developing a Lockout/Tagout Procedure
When it comes to developing a lockout/tagout procedure, OSHA outlines what a typical lockout procedure looks like in the 1910.147 App A standard. For instances when the energy-isolating device can’t be located, tagout devices may be used as long as the employer complies with the stipulation that additional training and more rigorous inspections are needed.

The following steps in the lockout/tagout procedure lay the groundwork for the lockout of energy-isolating devices when servicing machinery or providing maintenance, according to OSHA standard 1910.147 App A. These steps should be used to verify that the machinery is stopped, isolated from all hazardous energy sources and locked out before any employee begins maintenance or servicing, preventing the machine from starting up unexpectedly.

When the lockout/tagout procedure is completed, it should detail the scope, rules, purpose, authorization and techniques employees will use to control hazardous energy sources and how compliance will be enforced. Employees should be able to read through the procedure and at least see:

Instructions for how to use the procedures;
Specific procedural steps to shut down, isolate, block and secure machines;
Specific steps outlining safe placement, removal and transfer of lockout/tagout devices, as well as who is responsible for the devices;
Specific requirements for testing machines to test the effectiveness of the lockout/tagout devices.