What are key components to set up proper energy control procedures?
Identify the energy types employed within a piece of equipment. Is it electrical energy only? Is the equipment piece in question operating with a large press brake with a stored energy component with gravity?
Identify how to isolate the energies that are external to the equipment.
Identify what stored energy remains after shutdown and how to release that stored energy.
Identify the way in which energy is controlled. Are these controls compliant and effective?
Evaluate current procedures and ask yourself: If these steps are followed, would I be safe putting my hand in potentially hazardous areas, or taking off guarding
Ensure there is clear communication of proper LOTO procedures for each piece of equipment.
Helpful Reminders: The Do’s and Don’ts
It all starts with shared ownership. Documenting and making standards easily accessible to employees is a starting point, not the endgame. A true commitment to safety and compliance will require training, reinforcement of protocols and open channels of communication.
Approach equipment with fresh eyes. Even if a piece of equipment has been at your facility for decades, when it comes to safety, it needs to be looked at as if it had just been added to your line.
Ask questions. What energy sources does the equipment require? How does it operate? What does it do? What is the required maintenance and is there a plan in place for it? Where is the power shut off? Are training manuals and OEM materials easily accessible?
Craft easy to understand procedures. When documenting LOTO safety procedures, it is important to keep in mind the levels of experience and seniority of the employees coming in contact with a piece of equipment. The content needs to be easily digestible and always within reach. Remember that these materials need to answer key questions like how to recognize when a piece of equipment is at a zero-energy state and how to isolate a specific type of energy.
Post time: Nov-19-2022