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When performance matters most

Brady

Every year thousands of workers get killed or injured while performing repairs or maintenance on industrial equipment or machinery. Many of these accidents are caused by the uncontrolled release of energy. In Europe however, several regulations exist, requiring that all energy sources are turned off and 'locked out' while machines are being serviced or repaired.

What is it?

Lockout Tagout is a planned safety procedure which involves turning off the energy supply of industrial machinery and equipment whilst maintenance work or repairs are being carried out. This procedure protects workers from the risks posed by live machinery or electricity.

Why Lockout/Tagout?

Safe working while doing maintenance, cleaning or repairs
Prevention of injuries
Prevention of damage
It helps to prevent errors being made
It is a procedure which clearly communicates risk in the workplace

Current Legal Requirements

In the UK the Provision of Work Equipment Regulations - Regulation 19 - Isolation from Sources of energy states: "Every employer shall ensure, that where appropriate, work equipment is provided with suitable means to isolate it from all its sources of energy. Every employer shall take appropriate measures to ensure that reconnection of any energy source to work equipment do not expose any person using the equipment to any risk to his health or safety".

The EU Guidelines 89/655 specifies the minimum requirements concerning safety and health while using equipment. Paragraph 2.14 lays down that "every piece of equipment must be fitted with clearly visible devices with which it can be separated from every energy source.