Authorized Employee: The Key Player in Lockout/Tagout Procedure

Who is responsible for performing lockout/tagout on a machine or equipment for servicing or maintenance?

Authorized employees

Authorized Employee: The Backbone of Lockout/Tagout Process

Authorized employees play a crucial role in the lockout/tagout process when it comes to servicing or maintaining machines and equipment. But what exactly does being an authorized employee entail?

Authorized employees are individuals who are trained and authorized to perform lockout/tagout procedures on machines or equipment. These employees have the knowledge and skills to safely lock or tag machinery to ensure that service or maintenance work can be carried out without risking the safety of themselves or others.

Operators of energy facilities, plumbers, electricians, and other skilled workers are examples of authorized employees who may be required to perform lockout/tagout procedures as part of their job responsibilities. When an employee's duties involve servicing or maintaining equipment, they become an authorized employee and must follow the proper lockout/tagout protocol.

Tagout involves attaching a tagout device to an energy-isolating device to indicate that the equipment is not to be operated until the tagout device is removed. On the other hand, lockout entails using a lockout device to prevent the operation of the energy-isolating device or controlled equipment until the lockout device is removed. Lockout devices are mechanisms like locks, blank flanges, and bolted slip shutters that physically prevent the energizing of machinery.

By adhering to proper lockout/tagout procedures and with the help of authorized employees, companies can ensure a safe work environment and prevent accidents or injuries caused by unexpected equipment energization. It is essential for all employees to understand the importance of lockout/tagout and follow the established protocols to protect themselves and their coworkers.