UNDERSTAND THE CONCEPT
Machines and systems may contain electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, or other hazardous energy. Unexpected movement, startup, or release of stored energy can seriously harm people during servicing. Lockout and tagout belong to a hazardous energy control program with defined responsibilities, training, and procedures. The details depend on the equipment, work, jurisdiction, and approved site arrangements.
This overview does not teach an isolation method or qualify a learner to apply or remove energy-control devices. An administrative status such as 'maintenance booked' or 'permit approved' is not evidence that equipment has been appropriately isolated. Planning systems should reference the authorized procedure and responsible personnel without encouraging shortcuts. Any uncertainty about equipment status, boundaries, or responsibilities must be referred through the site's approved process to qualified, authorized people before the affected activity proceeds.
Questions to take back to your team
- Are administrative labels clearly separated from equipment energy status?
- Which approved procedure and authorized role apply?
- Can workers identify where to raise uncertainty about the equipment?
Awareness guide only. Follow applicable requirements, qualified review and your site’s approved procedures. Reading this page does not authorize work or certify competence.
Further reading
Explore the primary references below. Requirements and applicability depend on your organization and jurisdiction.
