Wiktor Wise
Lockout-tagout is a safety procedure used to protect workers from hazardous energy sources, such as electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, or thermal energy. It involves physically isolating the energy source from the system, machine, or equipment it powers, and securing it to prevent accidental re-energization during servicing or repair. This is typically achieved through the use of lockout devices, such as padlocks, and tags that communicate important information about the lockout. Lockout procedures are designed to prevent injuries and fatalities and are particularly important when working with electrical systems, where the risk of electric shock or arc flash can be significant.
Characteristics and Values of Lockout in Electrical Engineering
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Lockout is the use of devices, methods and procedures to isolate or secure an energy source from the system that uses it. |
| Energy Sources | Electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal or other. |
| Devices | Lockout padlocks, circuit breaker lockouts, valve lockouts, energy isolating devices. |
| Purpose | To prevent hazardous energy from being reintroduced during servicing or repair. |
| Procedure | Physically isolate the energy source, secure it in a zero energy state, use tags to communicate information about the lockout. |
| Safety | The OSHA lockout tagout standard was developed in 1982 and legally enacted in 1989 to protect workers. |
| Transfer of Responsibility | The OSHA standard requires the use of mechanical devices and tags, with no gaps in coverage between outgoing and incoming employees. |
| Applications | Industrial disputes, labour disputes, sports, education. |
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What You'll Learn
Lockout Tagout
The process of Lockout Tagout typically involves the use of lockout padlocks and devices to physically isolate the energy source. For example, in the case of electrical energy, circuit breakers can be locked in the "open" (off) position to prevent them from being turned on accidentally. This is often done using a personal lock, where only the person working on the system has the key, ensuring that no one else can unlock it.
Tagout is an integral part of the process, involving the use of labels or tags that communicate important information. These tags inform others of when the system was turned off, who placed the lock, and the reason for the lockout. Tags may also include written descriptions or additional details to provide clear communication about the work being performed.
The Lockout Tagout procedure is especially critical when working with large and potentially dangerous systems. It helps ensure that hazardous energy is not reintroduced during maintenance or repair work. This includes not only electrical energy but also addressing mechanical and thermal energy sources.
The implementation of Lockout Tagout has played a vital role in enhancing workplace safety. The standard for the Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout), developed by the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), has helped prevent injuries and fatalities by providing a structured framework for securing equipment and machinery during servicing and repairs.
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Securing an electrical system
Electrical systems can be dangerous, and it is important to take steps to secure them to prevent accidents, fires, and electrocution. Here are some ways to secure an electrical system:
Lockout Tagout
Lockout Tagout is a process of de-energizing and securing equipment, machinery, or processes to prevent hazardous energy from being reintroduced during servicing or repair. This includes securing electrical circuits, valves, moving parts, and neutralizing extreme temperatures. A lockout occurs when an energy source is physically isolated from the system that uses it, such as a machine or equipment. This is typically done using lockout padlocks and devices designed for specific applications, such as circuit breaker lockouts or valve lockouts.
A tagout is then affixed to the lockout, communicating information about the work being done and why it is necessary. It is important to note that tagout alone is not sufficient as it does not physically prevent equipment from being re-energized. Only mechanical devices and tags are permitted under OSHA standards.
Safety Precautions
To secure an electrical system, it is crucial to follow safety precautions. This includes:
- Consulting with a licensed electrician or a professional before installing new wiring or electrical appliances.
- Getting a home inspection for electrical safety to identify potential sources of electrical fires and make necessary changes.
- Following electrical safety tips, such as reading instructions for appliances, stopping the use of appliances that give electrical shocks, and avoiding overloading electrical outlets.
- Properly installing and securing electrical boxes and wiring, especially in exterior electrical boxes.
- Taking precautions during storms to protect electrical equipment from floods, hurricanes, and severe weather.
Maintenance and Repair
When performing maintenance or repair work on an electrical system, it is important to follow certain procedures to secure the system and ensure safety:
- "Racking out" large circuit breakers feeding power to the system by unplugging them from their cubicles to prevent power conduction to the circuit.
- Using a padlock to secure a disconnect device in the "open" (off) state. This should be a personal lock to ensure only authorized personnel can operate it.
- Checking for the presence of voltage on conductors of the circuit before proceeding with any work.
- Following the standard locking and tagging procedures, including communicating clearly with all people performing maintenance work.
By following these guidelines, you can help secure an electrical system and ensure the safety of those working on and around it.
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Lockout devices
There are various lockout devices available for electrical systems, each designed for different components:
- Circuit breakers: A lockout device for circuit breakers prevents the breaker from being turned on, ensuring that power cannot be conducted to the circuit. This includes universal circuit breaker lockouts that fit on breakers' toggles and can be tightened with a screwdriver.
- Plugs: Plug lockout devices surround electrical plugs to prevent accidental reconnection. Some feature a patented rotating design for easier installation in confined spaces.
- Push buttons: Lockout devices for push buttons are placed over the buttons, concealing them and preventing accidental energization. These are useful for electrical panels, control stations, and heavy machinery, such as cranes.
- Switches: Switch lockout devices prevent access to a control switch while still allowing visibility of labels and nameplates.
It is important to note that lockout devices are just one part of the lockout tagout process. Tags, which provide information about the lockout and the person responsible, are also crucial for effective communication and safety. Together, lockout devices and tags help ensure a safe working environment when dealing with electrical systems and hazardous energy.
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Tagout communication
Lockout-tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure used to ensure that dangerous equipment is properly shut off and cannot be started up again before maintenance or repair work is completed. It involves physically isolating an energy source (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) from the system it powers.
Tags also play a role in the transfer of responsibility during shift changes. The incoming shift must assume control of the system before the outgoing employees release their control, ensuring no gaps in the coverage of lockout devices. Tags facilitate this transfer by clearly indicating which employee is responsible for a specific lockout.
Additionally, tags are integral to training and communication for employees. They help workers understand the purpose and function of the LOTO procedure, emphasising the importance of isolating hazardous energy sources. Tags also serve as a visual reminder to proceed with caution and follow established safety protocols.
While tags are essential for communication, they should not be relied upon solely for safety. Tags do not physically prevent equipment from re-energising. Therefore, tags are always used in conjunction with lockout devices to provide a comprehensive safety measure.
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Checking for hazardous voltage
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a procedure that involves de-energizing and securing equipment, machinery, or processes to prevent hazardous energy from being reintroduced during servicing or repair work. This includes closing electrical circuits, neutralizing extreme temperatures, and securing moving parts.
Before performing any work on electrical systems, it is crucial to check for hazardous voltage to ensure safety. Here are some detailed steps to achieve this:
Open the Circuit Breaker:
Begin by opening the circuit breaker to interrupt the flow of electricity. This is a fundamental step to ensure that the electrical system is isolated from its energy source.
Lock the Circuit Breaker:
Use a padlock or a similar device to lock the circuit breaker in the "open" position. This mechanical lock ensures that no one can accidentally or intentionally close the circuit breaker while you are working, providing a physical barrier to hazardous energy.
Attempt to Start the Motor:
Try to start the motor by turning the On/Off switch to the "on" position. This step helps identify any potential issues that could cause the motor to start unintentionally.
Leave the On/Off Switch in the "Off" Position:
After attempting to start the motor, return the On/Off switch to the "off" position. This reinforces the safety measure, ensuring that the motor remains inactive during the voltage testing process.
Test for Hazardous Voltage:
Now, use a voltmeter to test for the presence of hazardous voltage at specific points in the circuit. Check for both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) voltage between points A and B, between A and the ground, and between B and the ground. This comprehensive testing ensures that all potential voltage paths are identified.
Verify the Voltmeter's Accuracy:
To ensure accurate readings, test your voltmeter on a known live circuit before and after checking for hazardous voltage. This step confirms that your voltmeter is functioning correctly and can detect voltage reliably.
Visually Inspect Lockout/Tagout Devices:
Before declaring the area safe, visually verify that the electrician has properly applied Lockout/Tagout devices according to established policies. Ensure that the area or equipment has been declared electrically safe by the authorized personnel.
Test Surrounding Equipment:
Use your voltage detector to test the surrounding equipment cabinets and circuit panels (covers, not wiring). This step ensures that all nearby equipment is de-energized or grounded, reducing the risk of accidental energization during work.
Test Each Phase Conductor or Circuit Breaker:
After ensuring the area's safety, proceed to test each phase conductor or circuit breaker for the absence of voltage. Your voltage detector wand should indicate no live electricity on each test, confirming that hazardous voltage has been successfully isolated.
Remember, these steps are crucial to ensure your safety when working with electrical systems. Always follow established Lockout/Tagout procedures and prioritize proper training for anyone involved in the process.
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Frequently asked questions
Lockout in electrical means the physical isolation of an energy source (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) from the system that uses it. This is done to ensure that hazardous energy isn't reintroduced to equipment during servicing or repair.
Tagout is the process of affixing a label or tag that communicates information about the maintenance work being done and why. Lockout tagout refers to the combination of both practices.
The purpose of lockout tagout is to protect workers who are servicing or repairing equipment in the workplace. It helps prevent accidents and injuries by ensuring that energy sources are isolated and cannot be turned on accidentally.
Examples of hazardous energy sources include mechanical energy, hydraulic energy, pneumatic energy, chemical energy, thermal energy, and electrical energy.
The steps involved in the lockout tagout procedure include locking and tagging the energy source, checking for voltage, and ensuring proper communication between all maintenance personnel.
