Tagout Device Criteria
Tagout devices must meet specific requirements.
In addition to the requirements listed previously, tagout devices must meet the following specific hardware requirements:
- Durable. Tags must be constructed and printed so that exposure to weather conditions or wet and damp locations will not cause the tag to deteriorate or the message on the tag to become illegible. They must not deteriorate when used in corrosive environments such as areas where acid and alkali chemicals are handled and stored.
- Legible. Warnings on tagout devices must be legible even in wet, damp, or corrosive conditions.
- Standardized. Tags must be standardized in print and format.
- Substantial. Tags must be substantial to prevent inadvertent or accidental removal.
- Attachment. Tags must have an attachment means of a non-reusable type, attachable by hand, self-locking, and non-releasable with a minimum unlocking strength of no less than 50 pounds and having the general design and basic characteristics of being at least equivalent to a one-piece all-environment-tolerant nylon cable tie.
- Warning. Tags must warn against hazardous conditions if the machine or equipment is energized. Remember, tags only warn: they do not protect.
- Legend. Tags must include a legend such as: Do Not Start, Do Not Open, Do Not Close, Do Not Energize, Do Not Operate.
You can view some more examples of lockout/tagout devices from CAL-OSHA
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
5-3. Tagout devices must have a minimum unlocking strength of no less than _____.
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