Lockout Tagout Tryout: A brief explanation and summary
Why Lockout-Tagout-Tryout?
In industrial environments, employee safety is a critical concern. Lockout-Tagout-Tryout (LoToTo) procedures play a crucial role in ensuring this safety. These procedures are designed to effectively isolate hazardous energy sources—such as electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic—and thereby prevent incidents during maintenance activities.
Legal Obligations and Safety
Within the EU, Directive 2009/104/EC states that employers are required to take appropriate safety measures when using work equipment. Lockout-Tagout-Tryout aligns seamlessly with this directive by minimizing the risks of unexpected energy release and unintentional machine startup.
How to Implement an Effective LoToTo Program
An effective Lockout-Tagout program consists of three clear steps:
Develop a comprehensive LoToTo manual and procedures: Define clear instructions for each machine and installation.
Train and certify staff: Every employee must understand and be able to follow the procedures. Authorized, affected, and other employees each require specific training tailored to their role within the company.
Implement and evaluate the program: Active application, regular inspections, and evaluations of the procedures are essential for ongoing success.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Standard LoToTo Procedure
Preparation: Clearly and thoroughly inform employees about the work to be performed.
Shutdown and isolation: Use energy-isolating devices to completely disconnect machines from their energy sources.
Apply Lockout and Tagout: Authorized employees place physical locks (lockout) and warning tags (tagout) on energy-isolating devices.
Release stored energy: Ensure that residual energy, such as stored voltage or pressure, is safely discharged.
Verification: Always verify that the machine is truly safe before beginning work. This is done by performing specific tests, such as attempting to start the machine.
This list is not exhaustive but provides a foundation for a procedure. For a more detailed procedure description, please refer to this page.
Requirements for Lockout and Tagout Materials
Lockout devices must be durable, standardized, sturdy, and easily identifiable. They may only be used for safety purposes and must be resistant to the working environment. When using tagout, potential limitations must be taken into account. Tags provide visual warnings but do not offer physical protection. Therefore, lockout is always preferred over tagout alone.
Group LoToTo and Special Situations
For group work, lockout hasps are used so that each worker can apply their own lock. Specific procedures also apply during shift changes or when machines must be temporarily re-energized for testing or positioning.
Periodic Evaluations and Documentation
To ensure compliance with procedures and legislation, periodic evaluations must be carried out. All procedures, training sessions, and inspections must be documented and regularly reviewed. This not only provides oversight but also ensures continuous improvement of workplace safety.
A Tailored Solution for Every Situation
Every company faces unique challenges and requirements. That’s why LoToTo procedures must be developed to suit individual needs. We’re happy to assist in selecting the right materials and providing customized advice.
Better Safe Than Sorry
Lockout-Tagout-Tryout is not a luxury, but a necessary investment in safety and efficiency. Protect your employees and your business with a well-designed and properly implemented LoToTo program.
Visit our webshop for more information, advice, and the best Lockout-Tagout products: Lockout-Tagout-Shop.com
Comments
Be the first to comment...