Lockout Tagout Top Tips

1. Always use a proper, safety padlock. One which is designed for the purposes of lockout tagout applications and not general security.
2. Put a multi-lock safety hasp on the isolation device before adding a padlock. This way, if any other person needs to work on the isolated equipment, they can simply add their padlock to the hasp.
3. An ill-fitting circuit breaker lockout is easy to override so use a circuit breaker selection guide to select the best lockout device for your particular make and model of breaker.
4. Before carrying out an isolation procedure, inform everyone affected what is taking place and the work us expected to be complete. This includes the operators of the equipment.
5. If you are unsure about the hazards involved, carry out a risk assessment.
6. Be sure to add a lockout tag at the point of isolation. The tag is a means of conveying information about the work being done and will inform others who is carrying out the work and when they expect to finish.
7. Often lockouts are overlooked simply because the worker thought his task would only take a few moments and the lockout equipment is located some distance away. Overcome this scenario by locating basic lockout equipment (padlocks and hasps) in a lockout station close-by the machinery isolation points.
8. Improve your key management by using keyed alike padlocks for each different worker. This way, they avoid having to locate the right key to open a lock. Be sure that each workers' padlocks use a different key though.
9. Once you have completely isolated the equipment you are working on, be sure to wear the appropriate PPE, suitable for the task being carried out.
10. Ask your manager about providing a monthly tool-box talk on lockout tagout procedures. Vary it each time by focusing on different type of machine or equipment.

For qualified advice, without obligation, contact Total Lockout (Safety) Ltd

www.totallockout.com

sales@totallockout.com