Lock-Out/Block-Out Planning
December 6, 2016
To comply with applicable OSHA standards, businesses are required to have a written plan on how to handle the lockout of energy isolating devices whenever maintenance or servicing is done on machines or equipment where the unexpected start-up of the machine or equipment could cause injury.
Overview: How to comply with OSHA standards (click on links for more detail)
- Know the standard. 29 CFR 1910.147.
- General – Create a plan, (Sample Lock-Out / Block-Out Plan) to assist your business in developing procedures that meet the requirements of this standard.
- The first steps in creating your Lockout Procedure (Plan) –Start your plan by indicating the name of your business and the devices specific to the lockout procedure. Identify whether a single procedure is appropriate or if multiple procedures are necessary based on the machinery and equipment specific to your business.
- Purpose – The plan establishes minimum requirements for the lockout of energy isolating devices whenever maintenance or servicing is done on machines or equipment.
- Compliance With This Program – All employees are required to comply with the restrictions and limitations imposed upon them during the use of lockout.
- Sequence of Lock-Out –
- Restoring Equipment to Service – pg.2
Preparedness and knowledge of machine and equipment lock-out or block-out procedures is critical for the safety of all. You will want to designate knowledgeable personnel for oversight of your Lock-Out/Block-Out Plan.
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