How to use lockout station?

I believe that the use of lock stations is more common, but do you know how to use the lock marking program in the lockout station?

Ø  What is a lock program?

Ø  The general use steps of the lockout station.

Ø  Determine whether the energy isolation device can be locked.

1、What is a lock program?

The productivity of machinery can be greatly improved, so that one worker can complete the work of dozens of employees who do not use the machine. However, despite the benefits of machines, they have limitations and can seriously harm employees. Therefore, the operator must be protected by the protective device of the machine to limit the contact of workers and provide adequate protective measures during the normal operation of the machine to avoid harm. The locking procedure of the locking station is a regulation implemented by OSHA to protect and maintain the safety of workers. It specifically solves the injuries caused by accidental power-on or equipment startup, and even the hazards of releasing stored energy when repairing or maintaining equipment.

2、The general use steps of the lockout station.

The lock station mainly serves as storage and reminder. Follow the relevant requirements of OSHA, and the specific operations vary from device to device. But the general locking station should follow 6 basic steps.

①　Prepare to shut down. Notify all affected employees that planning will be carried out under the specifications of the lock mark. Authorized employees should check the equipment and lock marking procedures, and then make relevant preparations.

②　Turn off the device. Authorized employees will shut down the equipment in accordance with the company or manufacturer's requirements.

③　Isolate the equipment. Use device-specific locks and tags to isolate the device from hazardous energy sources.

④　Place locks and labels. The lock or tag should be placed on the valve, and anywhere else that needs to be noted in the equipment-specific LOTO procedure.

⑤　Release the stored energy. Releasing stored energy from energy storage hazards, such as releasing springs, blocking overhead parts that may fall, stopping moving parts, expelling fluid, expelling gas, etc.

⑥　Verify device isolation. Make sure that workers stay away from the area, the locking device is firmly in place, and the equipment is isolated. After completing this operation, try to boot normally to confirm that the device does not boot.

3、Determine whether the energy isolation device can be locked.

There may be people who are more confused under what circumstances the energy isolation device can be locked. Under normal circumstances, if one of the following conditions is met, it is considered to be locked.

It is designed with buckles or other parts, and you can install the lock directly on it.

There is a locking mechanism built in.

It can be locked without dismantling, rebuilding or replacing the energy isolation device or permanently changing its energy control capability.

The role of the lockout station is very important, so the corresponding steps must be strictly followed. If you have questions about how to determine whether the energy is isolated, you can also contact us.