Purpose
This procedure establishes the minimum requirements for lockout of energy sources that could cause injury to personnel. All employees shall comply with the procedure.
Responsibility
The responsibility for seeing that this procedure is followed is binding upon all employees. All employees shall be instructed in the safety significance of the lockout procedure by a designated individual. Each new or transferred affected employee shall be instructed by designated individuals in the purpose and use of the lockout procedure.
Preparation for Lockout
Employees authorised to perform lockout shall be certain as to which switch, valve, or other energy isolating devices apply to the equipment being locked out. More than one energy source (electrical, mechanical, or others) may be involved. Any questionable identification of sources shall be cleared by the employees with their supervisors. Before lockout commences, job authorisation should be obtained.
Sequence of Lockout Procedure
1. Notify the supervisor and all affected employees that a lockout is required.
2. If the equipment is operating, shut it down by the normal stopping procedure.
3. Operate the switch, valve, or other energy isolating devices so that the energy source(s) (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, other) is disconnected or isolated from the equipment.
4. Lockout energy isolating devices with an assigned individual lock or Tag
5. Stored energy, such as that in capacitors, springs, elevated machine members, rotating fly wheels, hydraulic systems, and air, gas, steam or water pressure, must also be dissipated or restrained by methods such as grounding, repositioning, blocking.
6. After ensuring that no personnel are exposed and as a check on having disconnected the energy sources, operate the push button or other normal operating controls to make certain the equipment will not operate. CAUTION: Return operating controls to neutral position after the test.
7. The equipment is now locked out.
Restoring Equipment to Service
1. When the job is complete, and equipment is ready for testing or normal service, check the equipment area to see that no one is exposed.
2. When equipment is clear, remove all locks.
3. Start equipment/machinery.
4. Verify that the equipment is operating correctly.
5. Close out any applicable permit(s) and return them to the supervisor.
Isolation procedures are required to be used during maintenance and cleaning of the workplace.
In the case that machinery is required to remain in motion during cleaning or maintenance, refer to Manufacturer’s instructions. Only the parts that are required to remain in motion shall not be isolated or locked out.
Complete an SOP prior to this process, to ensure those working on the equipment are aware of all procedures or processes involved. Only trained employees shall perform maintenance and/or cleaning on machinery that must remain in motion. This training must be specific to energised work.