710 Energy Control Program (Lockout/Tagout)

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.

Full release and entry back into lockout/tagout is required when testing.

Written energy control procedures will address the temporary removal of lockout or tagout devices. Temporary removal is allowed when re-energizing equipment is necessary, for example, when power is needed to test or position the equipment. This applies only for the limited time required to perform the task and the procedure must be documented.

Although lockout/tagout devices may be removed temporarily to perform testing, 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.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

7-3. Which type of modification may be made to lockout/tagout entry or release procedures for testing purposes?

Temporary removal of one energy-isolation device may be made for testing

None - full lockout/tagout procedures must be used for testing

An abbreviated entry and release from the lockout/tagout condition may be made

OSHA does not have a position with regard to testing during lockout/tagout

You forgot to answer the question!