When Is A Written Lockout Tagout Procedure Required?

A written lockout tagout procedure, otherwise known as an energy control procedure, is required for all activities covered by 29 CFR 1910.147 "The Control of Hazardous Energy" standard. There is an exemption for this rule, provided that the conditions meet all eight of the specified exemptions.

Required Conditions For Lockout Tagout Procedure Exemption

1910.147(c)(4)(i) describes the exemption requirements.  A energy control procedure is not required if all of the following conditions exist:

1. The machine or equipment has no potential stored or residual energy, and energy may not re-accumulate after shutdown.
2. There is a single energy source that can easily be identified and isolated.
3. The lockout will complete deenergize the equipment.
4. The equipment is isolated and locked out from the energy source during maintenance.
5. A single lockout device will achieve the required isolation.
6. The lockout device is under the exclusive control of authorized employee performing the work.
7. The work does not create hazards for other employees.
8. Previous use of this exemption has not caused accidents involving unexpected re-energization or startup.

References

• 29 CFR 1910.147 - The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout / Tagout)
• 1910.147 Appendix A - Typical Minimal Lockout Tagout Procedures
• OSHA Lockout Tagout Safety and Health Topics
• OSHA Lockout Tagout Guide

Recommended Products

• Lockout Tagout Safety Training Compliance Kit - Energy Control Plan, Training, Lockout Tagout Procedure Templates & Forms.