OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

Which of the following is a recommended practice for Lockout Tagout?

1. Use a single lock for all employees

2. Isolate and control stored energy

3. Tag equipment without locking it

4. Avoid training employees on procedures

The correct answer is: Isolate and control stored energy

The emphasis on isolating and controlling stored energy is essential in the Lockout Tagout (LOTO) process. This practice is critical because machinery or equipment can have residual energy even after it appears to be turned off. Stored energy can take various forms, including electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, kinetic, or thermal energy. If not properly controlled, this energy can release unexpectedly, leading to potential injuries during maintenance or servicing activities. In the LOTO process, ensuring that all sources of hazardous energy are effectively isolated and that measures are in place to prevent the accidental re-energization of equipment is paramount. This includes physically locking devices and using tags to indicate that maintenance is being performed. Such procedures protect employees by providing a clear and visible reminder that the equipment should not be operated. Effective training and adherence to this practice not only enhance workplace safety but also comply with OSHA standards, which aim to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities associated with unexpected machine startup or release of stored energy.