The control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout)

Overview

OSHA’s standard for controlling hazardous energy—known as lockout/tagout (29 CFR 1910.147)—outlines the steps needed to disable machinery or equipment to prevent the release of hazardous energy during servicing or maintenance. This includes electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, and other energy sources.

Why it matters

When hazardous energy isn’t properly controlled, workers face serious risks—including injury or death. Craft workers, machine operators, and laborers are among the three million employees most at risk. Following lockout/tagout procedures helps prevent roughly 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries annually. On average, injured workers lose 24 workdays recovering.

Employer responsibilities

Employers must protect workers by creating and enforcing an energy control program tailored to their equipment and operations. This includes:

• Using lockout devices where possible; tagout devices only when lockout isn’t feasible and with equivalent protection.
• Ensuring new or modified equipment can be locked out.
• Documenting and implementing energy control procedures.
• Using only authorized, durable, and standardized lockout/tagout devices.
• Ensuring devices clearly identify the user.
• Allowing only the person who applied the device to remove it.
• Conducting annual inspections of energy control procedures.
• Providing training for all affected employees.
• Following additional OSHA provisions for testing, contractor work, group lockouts, and shift changes.

What workers need to know

Training must cover:

• The employer’s energy control program.
• Procedures relevant to the worker’s role.
• OSHA requirements for lockout/tagout.

Resource

Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA, n.d.)
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) Fact Sheet (OSHA, n.d.)