How well do you know lockout/tagout?

All workplaces should have a written lockout/tagout program in place.

Which statement is true concerning tagout devices?

Arrange in correct sequence the actions involved in reenergizing machines. (i) Energize the machine and continue with positioning or testing. (ii) Make sure no employee is exposed to the machine. Clear all employees from the area around the machine. (iii) Remove the lockout/tagout devices. (iv) Clear materials and tools from the machine. (v) De-energize the system: isolate the machine from its energy source. (vi) Reapply energy control procedures in case additional maintenance or service is required.

Locks are the only approved means for locking out a machine.

Lockout devices should be standardized within the facility by using the same:

Affected employees in a lockout/tagout are those who:

Select all the forms of potentially hazardous energy.

Arrange the following steps of the lockout procedure in the correct sequence. (i) Shut it down equipment using the normal stopping procedure (i.e., close valve, open switch, press it down). (ii) Isolate the machine or equipment from its energy source. (iii) Communicate to all affected employees that a machine or equipment requires servicing and must be shut down and locked out. (iv) Lock out the energy isolating device(s) with assigned locks and “Danger!” tags. (v) Return operating controls to “off” or “neutral” after verifying that the machine is isolated from its energy source. (vi) Check that the machine is isolated from all energy sources (including residual energy,) first, by making sure that no employee is exposed to it, then by trying normal operating procedure to see if the machine is working.

What percentage of serious accidents in the workplace are attributed to lockout/tagout?

Lockout/tagout is in OSHA's "Top 10" most-cited violations.