Lockout/Tagout Devices

BOTH lockout and tagout devices MUST BE:

• Durable
• Locks must be durable enough to withstand workplace conditions.
• Tags must not deteriorate or become illegible even when used with corrosive components such as acid or alkali chemicals or in wet environments.

• Standardized
• Must be the only devices used for controlling energy.
• Must not be used for other purposes.
• Locks must be standardized according to either color, shape, or size.
• Tagout devices must also be standardized according to print and format.

• Substantial
• Locks must be substantial enough to prevent removal without the use of excessive force or unusual techniques (i.e. the use of bolt cutters or other metal cutting tools).
• Tags must be substantial enough to minimize early or accidental removal. They must be non-reusable, self-locking, and non-releasable, with a minimum unlocking strength of 50 pounds. Tags must be attachable by hand, and the device for attaching the tag should be a one-piece nylon cable tie or its equivalent so it can withstand all environments and conditions.

• Identifiable
• Locks and tags should be labeled, indicating who shut down the machine/is working on it.
• Tags should be legible and understandable by all employees and include a legend that warns against hazardous conditions if the machine or equipment is energized (e.g. Do Not Start, Do Not Open, Do Not Close, Do Not Energize, Do Not Operate).

YOUR LOCK IS YOUR LIFE.

DO NOT HAVE DUPLICATE KEYS.

Group lockout devices should be used when more than one person is working on the same piece of equipment. Equipment should not be able to be energized until all locks are removed. Each person must place and remove their own lock. (See Group Lockout/Tagout)