Procedure Requirements
OSHA has define a specific set of required elements which must be included in the Employer's Lockout / Tagout Procedures:
1910.147(c)(4)(ii)The procedures shall clearly and specifically outline the scope, purpose, authorization, rules, and techniques to be utilized for the control of hazardous energy, and the means to enforce compliance including, but not limited to, the following:
A specific statement of the intended use of the procedure;
Specific procedural steps for shutting down, isolating, blocking and securing machines or equipment to control hazardous energy;
Specific procedural steps for the placement, removal and transfer of lockout devices or tagout devices and the responsibility for them; and
Specific requirements for testing a machine or equipment to determine and verify the effectiveness of lockout devices, tagout devices, and other energy control measures.
Training of Employees
OSHA also requires that all affected employees are to be trained. This includes all machinery operators, maintenance staff, production workers, and "all other employees whose work operations are or may be in an area where energy control procedures may be utilized."
1910.147(c)(7)(i) The employer shall provide training to ensure that the purpose and function of the energy control program are understood by employees and that the knowledge and skills required for the safe application, usage, and removal of the energy controls are acquired by employees.
