What Is The Difference Between Lockout And Tagout

Introduction

Lockout and tagout are essential safety procedures used to prevent accidental startup or energizing of machinery and equipment during maintenance, servicing, or repair. Both methods aim to protect workers from hazardous energy, but they differ significantly in their approach. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between lockout and tagout, emphasizing the importance of proper training and compliance with OSHA standards.

Lockout

• Definition: Lockout involves physically preventing workers from operating equipment by placing a lock on an energy isolating device (such as a switch or valve).
• Purpose: Lockout ensures that hazardous energy sources are isolated, rendering the equipment inoperative during maintenance or repair.
• Safety Level: Lockout provides a higher level of safety because it physically prevents accidental activation.
• Implementation: All affected employees (those working with the equipment) place a standardized lock on the equipment before servicing.
• Compliance: OSHA requires standardized locks and proper training for lockout procedures.

 

Tagout

• Definition: Tagout uses tags (warning devices) to inform employees that equipment is undergoing maintenance and should not be operated.
• Purpose: Tagout serves as a secondary layer of protection, supplementing lockout procedures.
• Safety Level: Tagout alone is less safe because it relies on warning signs rather than physical barriers.
• Situations for Tagout: When locks cannot be physically placed (e.g., on certain valves) or when tags provide sufficient protection.
• Effectiveness: Tags are only as effective as their clarity and readability.

 

OSHA Lockout Tagout Training

• Importance: Proper training is crucial for implementing effective lockout and tagout procedures.
• OSHA Standard: OSHA’s Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout) standard (29 CFR 1910.147) outlines requirements for LOTO practices.
• Training Resources:
  1. Lockout-Tagout Interactive Training Program: Developed by OSHA, this eTool includes tutorials, hot topics, and case studies.
  2. General Industry Lockout/Tagout Safety Course: Covers LOTO requirements and procedures.
  3. Oregon OSHA Lockout/Tagout Online Course: Focuses on purpose, scope, and criteria for LOTO.

 

Conclusion

Lockout and tagout are complementary safety practices, each serving a specific purpose. Proper training and adherence to OSHA standards are essential for safeguarding workers and preventing accidents related to hazardous energy.

Remember: Lock it out, tag it out, and stay safe!