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757 Laboratory Safety
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The Control of Hazardous Energy

OSHA's 1910.147, The control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout) Standard establishes basic requirements for locking and/or tagging out equipment while installation, maintenance, testing, repair, or construction operations are in progress. The primary purpose of the standard is to protect workers from the unexpected energization or startup of machines or equipment, or release of stored energy. The procedures apply to the shutdown of all potential energy sources associated with machines or equipment, including pressures, flows of fluids and gases, electrical power, and radiation.

  • When laboratory workers are using large analyzers and other equipment, their potential exposure to electrical hazards associated with this equipment must be assessed by employers and appropriate precautions taken.
  • Worker exposure to wet floors, spills or clutter can lead to slips, trips, falls and other possible injuries. Employers must assure that these hazards are minimized.
  • While large laboratory fires are rare, there is the potential for small bench-top fires, especially in laboratories using flammable solvents.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-6. The primary purpose of the Lockout/Tagout Standard is to protect workers from _____.