(MICRO) AT001 - Special Circumstances Interactive Online Training

Working around machinery is dangerous on a good day, add the extra hazards associated with servicing the equipment and the risks become greater. This training will provide the steps needed in the lockout/tagout process and how to minimize the risk of injury or even death on the job. It's important to understand the different types of energy found in machinery and the best methods to lockout or tagout in each scenario.

There is a difference between a lockout and a tagout, and specific instances in which each should be used. A lockout is any mechanism used to prevent the re-starting of equipment after shutdown. Each machine is different, so the lockout used varies, but some common examples are combination locks and padlocks. Using a lockout tool prevents the machinery from being accidentally restarted during servicing or maintenance. Tagout is used when a lockout isn't possible. A tagout is simply a tag placed on the equipment letting people know that it shouldn't be used or restarted at that time. Tags should be legible and to the point so it's easy for workers to understand.

Every job site includes three main types of employees: authorized, affected, and other. Understanding these roles is important in identifying the correct people using the lockout tool and how and when workers are notified of a lockout or tagout. Only authorized employees are allowed to put on and take off lockout tools. Only the same person who put on the lockout is authorized to remove it except in rare instances. Affected employees are those who operate the machinery daily. While they aren't directly involved in the lockout/tagout they need to be trained on the process and be alerted if a lockout/tagout is used on equipment. All other employees need to be aware of the importance of never removing or tampering with lockout/tagout systems and never starting a machine that has been locked or tagged out.

This course will help you understand lockout/tagout processes and the responsibilities of all involved in the procedure. Moving machinery causes many hazards for those working on it, so everyone needs to understand and follow lockout/tagout protocols. When we all work together, everyone is safe!

Keywords: lockout, tagout, hazardous energy, electrical, mechanical, electrical safety, LOTO, machine guarding, metering, energy source, hot tap, energy isolating device, energy control procedure, locks, tags, chains, energy control, mechanical safety, machinery, ppe

• Describe best practices in lockout/tagout