Lockout Tagout Guide: Controlling Hazardous Energy
This lockout tagout guide explains the core principles used to control hazardous energy before servicing, maintenance or other work where unexpected energization or energy release could cause harm.
What Is Lockout Tagout?
Lockout tagout is a hazardous-energy control process intended to prevent unexpected energization, startup or release of stored energy during defined work activities.
Specific legal and technical requirements vary by jurisdiction and equipment, so site procedures should reflect applicable requirements.
Identify All Hazardous Energy Sources
Consider electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, pressure, gravity and other relevant forms of energy. Stored or residual energy can remain after primary power is disconnected.
Shut Down and Isolate Equipment
Follow the appropriate shutdown sequence and operate energy-isolating devices required to separate equipment from hazardous energy sources.
Apply Lockout and Identification Controls
Use approved devices and procedures appropriate to the workplace. Locks and tags should be controlled according to the organization’s energy-control system.
Control Stored Energy and Verify Isolation
Release, restrain or otherwise control stored energy as required. Verify that isolation is effective using an appropriate method before work begins.
Restore Equipment Under Controlled Conditions
Before re-energization, verify that work is complete, people are clear and safeguards are restored as required. Follow established rules for removal of lockout devices and communication.
