What is Lockout?
'Lockout' means placing a lock or locks at energy-isolating devices with the intent of controlling all
hazardous energies associated with a piece of equipment. Lockout generally includes:
Isolating or stopping all energy flows using an energy isolating device (for example, by turning off an
electrical disconnect or closing a valve on a compressed air supply line )
Locking in a safe position to prevent accidental activation during maintenance
Securing a zero energy, de-energized state (for example, by applying blocks or blanks, or bleeding
hydraulic or pneumatic pressure from lines)
Verification of the zero energy state
Why is Controlling Hazardous Energy with Lockout Necessary?
If a lockout is not performed, uncontrolled hazardous energies can lead to:
Electrocution (contact with energized parts)
Cuts, bruises, crushing, amputations, death, resulting from:
– Entanglement with belts, chains, conveyors, rollers, shafts, impellers
– Entrapment by bulk materials from bins, silos or hoppers
– Drowning in liquids in vats or tanks
Burns (resulting from arc flash, contact with hot parts, materials or equipment)
Fires and explosions
Chemical exposures (gases or liquids released from pipelines)
Often, when energy sources are inadvertently turned on, or valves are opened mistakenly before the
work is completed, the result can be serious injuries and fatalities. Therefore, it is important not only to
ensure that all hazardous energies are properly controlled, but also that they remain locked out until the
work is completed.
LOCKOUT
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