Lockout/Tagout

Question: What are the basic steps of lockout/tagout?
Answer: The basic steps are to: lock and tag the energy isolating device(s), clear the equipment of people and materials and try or test the operating controls to make sure the lockout is effective (Remember - LOCK, TAG, CLEAR and TRY).

Question: Are written lockout/tagout procedures required for all machines or equipment being repaired or serviced?
Answer: Yes – written lockout/tagout procedures are required unless: there is no potential for stored energy; there is only a single, easily identifiable energy source and it is isolated by a single lockout device; isolation results in complete deenergization; lockout is under complete control of the employee, AND there is no history of accidents with the particular machine or equipment.

Question: If more than one person is involved in repair or service of a machine or piece of equipment, can they rely on one person to perform the lockout/tagout?
Answer: No – each person must perform their own lockout/tagout before performing repair or service on machines or equipment and each person must also maintain control of their key(s).

Question: Is lockout/tagout necessary when performing repair or service on cord and plug connected electrical equipment when it is unplugged?
Answer: As long as the employee has complete control over the plug, lockout/tagout is not necessary.