Dear Reader,

Even though I’m a health and safety professional, when I hear the words “lock-out procedure” I think of strikes. I imagine non-striking employees barring the doors to ensure striking workers can’t get in to intimidate them. This is particularly with all the unrest we’re having with our civil services at the moment. But, in fact, a lock-out procedure has nothing to do with strikes!

It’s essential that you develop a procedure to ensure switches and valves are correctly locked-out when maintenance or set-up is being done so work can be performed safely on machinery. Here’s how to develop a lock-out procedure in three basic steps...

3 basic steps to a lock-out procedure

There are three basic steps to a lock-out procedure: PRE, MID and POST. Make sure you include each in your procedure.

PRE-lock-out starts with the issue of a lock-out or work permit by the responsible person. This is followed by the drawing of locks and keys, de-activating the equipment or process through conventional or other means and the securing of the lock on the lock-out device. This is accompanied by the completion and hanging of the tag on the lock. This tag will show who is working on the machine and the date on which the lock-out was one. It also makes it easy to see if the lock-out is currently in use.

MID-lock-out continues by ensuring that the correct control has been locked, effectively disconnecting the power. Secure the key on the person who performed the lock-out and start the maintenance or other work. This stage continues until all work is complete.

Warning!

The removal of the lock by someone other than the one who placed it there should only be allowed under extreme circumstances, and then only with the express authority of the person who signed the permit, e.g. in the absence of the key holder. Once all activities are completed, get permission to remove the lock and tag and to restore the power supply.

POST-lock-out begins with a thorough inspection to remove all tools, loose parts and other maintenance equipment. Replace all the machine guards and other guards. Personnel must all be accounted for and be clear of all moving or hazardous mechanisms. Power is then restored and the necessary tests carried out before resuming normal operation.

If you read L02: Lock-out systems and procedures, in your Health and Safety Advisor, you’ll also find out:

• How to establish your system
• How to write a lock-out procedure
• Sample lock-out procedure
• Examples of lock-out devices
• Is there an alternative to the lock-out?
• How to conduct training and increase awareness

In the name of safety,

Christel Fouché

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