Earlier this summer, a manufacturer in East Peoria, Ill. faced three OSHA safety violations and $66,000 in proposed penalties for failing to follow proper procedures to lock out and tag out the energy sources of equipment, following the agency’s investigation into a December 2010 incident in which an employee was injured while attempting to clear a jam on a piece of machinery. Lockout/tagout provisions for the equipment had not been implemented prior to the employee entering the area. In addition, two repeat violations at the same facility from 2009 included failing to train employees on lockout/tagout procedures and to affix a lockout or tagout device to isolate energy to the same machine. This is just one example of how failure to follow proper lockout/tagout procedures can lead to trouble — whether it be costly downtime, injuries, or even fatalities.
For more detailed information on lockout/tagout guidelines and the 29 CFR 1910.147 standard (http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_id=9804&p_table=STANDARDS), visit OSHA’s Interactive Training Program online at http://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/lototraining/index.html. Here you can work through three major components of training at your own pace by going through a Q&A tutorial section, reviewing Hot Topic discussions on key issues, and taking part in simulated interactive case study inspections where you make decisions on how to apply the standard.
PRODUCTS:
Circuit Breaker Lockout
The Stopout circuit breaker lockout features a design that enables fast application time as well as quick and easy removal. The device does not rely on a traditional screw mechanism to secure, and it can easily be applied with just one hand, if needed. Simply lift the handle, slide onto the breaker bar, close the hand down, and secure with a padlock. In addition, the unit uses two metal jaws for optimum secure grip.
Accuform
Online Lockout/Tagout Design Tool
The Brady Lockout Procedure Online Design Tool allows users to design OSHA-compliant graphical lockout procedures online. The procedures can be customized for a specific facility and downloaded for printing from a laser or inkjet printer. The templates feature high-quality images and step-by-step instructions for properly locking out hazardous energy sources. Users simply upload digital images of their equipment into the web tool and create customized procedures based on their equipment list and lockout points. Available online 24 hours a day, procedures can be any length, and templates are available in a variety of languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French.
Brady
Switch Covers
The Safety Series of push-button and rotary switch covers is designed for use in temporary shutoff situations. The covers provide a visual and locked deterrent while eliminating the risk of accidents and injuries. Available models include the low-profile S2151/S2152AST removable button and rotary switch cover or the permanent S2153 installed cover. Both models accommodate buttons up to 2 in. (50 mm) in diameter and 1¾ in. (45 mm) tall.Master Lock
Interlock Systems
These interlock systems help ensure users’ safety while working on medium- and high-voltage machines and other electrical installations. Available in four ranges that offer a large number of locks adaptable to any hazardous components required to be manipulated in a specific order, the systems can be tailored to companies’ specific needs. Interdependent, each hazardous component is protected by one or more locks, each lock can only be opened with its own specific key, and a key will not be available to open a given lock if the preceding lock was not correctly released. Built around a sturdy stainless steel case able to withstand difficult environments, each interlock has a brass cylinder pin-tumbler, offering a wide range of keying combinations.Ronis
