loto

5 Lockout/Tagout A. Introduction Iowa State University (ISU) recognizes that preventing the unexpected start-up or release of stored energy from equipment during maintenance is key to protecting employees from injury. To address this issue and to comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Lockout/Tagout Standard (29 CFR 1910.147), the Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) has developed the Iowa State University Lockout/Tagout Manual. This manual outlines the procedures for conducting a safe lockout and/or tagout of equipment when maintenance is necessary. Lockout/tagout (LOTO) is accomplished by placing a lockout and/or a tagout device on a switch, valve, breaker, etc. to prevent reactivation of the equipment and to warn that maintenance activities are in progress. Equipment is considered “locked out” when the potential hazardous energy has been blocked and operation of the equipment is prevented until the lockout device is removed. Equipment is considered “tagged out” when a warning tag is placed on the equipment warning others that the equipment is being serviced and must not be operated. These safety measures should be used together to provide the maximum level of protection for those performing the service. Before any university personnel perform service/maintenance activities, they must understand the proper procedures for energy control as outlined in this manual and in OSHA's Lockout/Tagout Standard. The procedures outlined in this manual should ensure that: • personnel can identify machinery requiring LOTO • effective LOTO procedures are used to isolate and control hazardous energies • proper employee training is provided to both Authorized and Affected Employees (defined in Definitions) • periodic reviews of LOTO procedures are performed to verify their effectiveness Program Responsibilities University ISU is responsible for both ensuring the safety of its employees and compliance with all related requirements of state and federal regulations. The administration encourages employees at all levels to promote positive attitudes regarding safety, to incorporate safety into their work practices and to cooperate fully in the implementation of safety-related programs.