The four types of energy sources are:

• Electrical (most common form);

• Hydraulic or pneumatic;

• Fluids and gases; and

• Mechanical.

More than one energy source can be utilized on some equipment and the PROPER procedure must be followed in order to identify energy sources and lockout/tagout accordingly.

A. Shut off power at machine and disconnect.

B. Disconnecting means must be locked or tagged.

C. Press start button to see that correct systems are locked out.

D. All controls must be returned to their safest position.

E. Points to remember:

• If a machine or piece of equipment contains capacitors, they must be drained of stored energy.

• Possible disconnecting means include the power cord, power panels (look for primary and secondary voltage), breakers, the operator’s station, motor circuit, relays, limit switches, electrical interlocks.

• Some equipment may have a motor isolating shut-off and a control isolating shutoff.

• If the electrical energy is disconnected by simply unplugging the power cord, the cord must be kept under the control of the authorized employee, or the plug end of the cord must be locked out or tagged out.

A. Shut off all energy sources (pumps and compressors). If the pumps and compressors supply energy to more than one piece of equipment, lockout or tagout the valve supplying energy to this piece of equipment.

B. Stored pressure from hydraulic/pneumatic lines shall be drained/bled when release of stored energy could cause injury to employees.

C. Make sure controls are returned to their safest position (off, stop, standby, inch, jog, etc.).

A. Identify the type of fluid or gas;

B. Close valves to prevent flow, lockout/tagout;

C. Determine the isolating device, close, and lockout or tagout;

D. Drain and bleed lines to zero energy state.

Some systems may have electrically controlled valves; if so; they must be shut off, locked or tagged out.

E. Check for zero energy state at the equipment.

A. Block out or use die ram safety chain.

B. Lockout or tagout safety device.

C. Shut off, lockout or tagout electrical system.

D. Check for zero energy state.

E. Return controls to safest position.

For release from a lockout/tagout state, follow the following procedure:

A. Inspection - - Make certain the work is completed and inventory tools and equipment used.

B. Clean-up - - Remove all towels, rags, work-aids, etc.

C. Replace guards - - Replace all guards possible. Sometimes a particular guard may have to be left off until the start sequence is over due to possible adjustments, however, all other guards should be put back into place.

D. Check controls - - All controls should be in their safest position.

E. The work area shall be checked to ensure that all employees have been safely positioned or removed and notified that the lockout/tagout devices are being removed.

F. Remove locks/tags - - Remove only your lock or tag.

When servicing and/or maintenance is performed by more than one person, each authorized employee shall place his own lock or tag on the energy isolating source.

This shall be done by utilizing a multiple lock scissors clamp if the equipment is capable of being locked out. If the equipment cannot be locked out, then each authorized employee must place his tag on the equipment.

Each location must develop written procedures under the above heading that complies with 1910.147(e)(3) that can be utilized at that location. Your procedures should include the following: Verification by employer that the authorized employee who applied the device is not in the facility.

Make reasonable efforts to advise the employee that his device has been removed.

(This can be done when he returns to the facility).

Ensure that the authorized employee has this knowledge before he resumes work at the facility.

Shift or Personnel Changes

Each facility must develop their own written procedures based on their need and capabilities. However, your procedure must specify how you will ensure the continuity of lockout or tagout protection during that time. See 1910.147(e)(4).