LOCKOUT/TAGOUT

Scope:  This standard covers employees who service and repair equipment where the unexpected power influx or start-up of equipment could harm employees.

Overview:  The Lockout/Tagout Standard is designed to prevent injuries to personnel caused by the accidental start-up or sudden release of energy while performing repair or service on equipment. About three million workers who service equipment face the greatest risk. These include craft workers, machine operators, and laborers. Ten percent of serious industrial accidents are due to the accidental start up of equipment, 120 lives are lost each year and 60,000 injuries occur. Injures can occur during repairs, routine maintenance, clearing a jammed or blocked machine, cleaning, oiling equipment, or making minor adjustments. The rule generally requires that energy sources for equipment be turned off or disconnected and that the switch be locked and labeled with a warning tag. This class will discuss the standard, potential hazards, lockout/tagout devices, application of these devices, release from lockout/tagout, group lockout/tagout, inspections, contractors, and shift changes.