Johnson also recommends the use of a lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) system. The Pennsylvania Extension Services website states that the lock/tag system is a process used to mechanically lock equipment to prevent the machine or equipment from being energized to provide worker protection.
The lockout/tagout kit includes multiple locks with special keys for locks, locking devices and tags. The LOTO kit or wall-mounted workstation should be located in an area accessible to all workers, and workers should be provided with annual training on this process. New workers should be trained in the LOTO procedure before starting to work on the farm. Training should enable workers to understand the importance of energy control and have the skills to follow the LOTO process.
The most common example of LOTO in productive agriculture is to use it when a person enters a granary. LOTO should be used whenever someone enters the granary for any service or maintenance (for example, to unblock the auger). It is important to turn off the power to the equipment and use the lockout/tagout process to prevent someone from turning on the power and causing a potentially life-threatening accident.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has a series of eight steps to follow in the lockout/tagout process.
The first step is to review and understand the procedures required to safely shut down the equipment. The next step is to notify others of the planned closure. After the employee is notified, the device can be shut down following the correct procedure outlined in step 1. After turning off the device, it is important to ensure that all primary and secondary energy sources are safe and that the device cannot be accidentally energized. To verify that the lockout procedure is effective, make sure everyone is clear and try to start the device. If the equipment remains in a power-off state, the next step is to install a locking device compatible with the specific application (such as an electric circuit breaker) on the energy control component and a description of when (such as date, time, etc.) and why the system is locked (For example, repairs, maintenance, etc.) and the name of the person performing the maintenance. This locking device and document tag should be secured with a padlock by each person performing the work and paired with a key specific to their lock that they should keep
Once the LOTO process is complete, it is safe to start service or maintenance work. After the work is completed, clean the work area and ensure that people keep a safe distance from the trash can. Notify the people around the dumpster that work will resume. The person who completes the LOTO should be the only person allowed to delete it to ensure that the system cannot be started by others. Finally, remove the locking device and start the device and monitor whether it is working properly.
Post time: Sep-04-2021