LOTO Procedure Elements
Procedures for equipment with one or more sources of energy must detail the scope, purpose, authorization, rules and techniques that the employer will use to control hazardous energy.
- Scope: The scope might be limited to a single or group of similar pieces of equipment or machinery.
- Purpose: The purpose of the procedures is to ensure the unexpected energization/startup or shutdown does not occur during servicing or maintenance activities.
- Authority: The responsible manager authorizes the procedures and ensures specific rules/techniques are listed within the procedures.
The procedures must state the means to be used to enforce compliance. This requirement is typically met by stating the procedure is mandatory and may result in disciplinary action.
At a minimum, the procedures must include the following:
- a statement of the intended use of the procedure;
- steps for shutting down, isolating, blocking, and securing equipment;
- steps for the placement, removal, and transfer of lockout devices; and
- test methods to verify equipment has reached a safe, zero energy state.
Best Practice
Place "machine-specific" lockout/tagout procedures at the location of the equipment. Include photographs of the energy-isolating devices specific to the equipment.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-6. Where should written machine-specific lockout/tagout procedures be placed?
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