Testing Machinery or Equipment
In some circumstances, workers need to temporarily restore energy to a machine or piece of equipment during servicing or maintenance to test and /or reposition the machine or piece of equipment. Workers may temporarily remove lockout or tagout devices in order to perform these tasks. However, it is important to know that you may not use an abbreviated procedure during the release - test - restore sequence.
You must use full lockout/tagout procedures anytime you release from lockout/tagout or restore equipment after testing and positioning.
Temporary Removal Procedures
Below is the sequence of action that must occur in the temporary removal of the lockout/tagout devices:
- The machine or equipment must be cleared of tools and materials.
- Workers must be removed from the machine or equipment area.
- All lockout or tagout devices may then be removed.
- Authorized workers may then proceed to energize and test or position the equipment or machinery.
- Following testing or positioning, all systems must be de-energized and energy control measures reapplied to continue the servicing and /or maintenance.
Release After Long-Term Shutdown
You should have an additional energy-control procedure to protect workers if they must restart equipment after long-term shutdowns. Determine who will be responsible for monitoring any lockout and tagout devices that control energy to the equipment. Include steps in the procedure for protecting workers if they need to remove or change parts while the equipment is shut down. Do not restart equipment until you are absolutely certain that it is working properly.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-9. What lockout/tagout procedures may you use to temporarily test equipment to make sure your repairs have worked?
You forgot to answer the question!