While Lockout/Tagout has come far from the early industrial days of the late 1800s, it still remains a challenge in workplace safety. In 2013 OSHA focused specifically on LO/TO by adding an Amputations National Emphasis Program, which targets compliance with LO/TO and machine guarding standards.
“Failing to protect workers from dangerous machinery is among the most frequently cited OSHA violations, and injuries involving machinery and equipment often result in death or permanent disability,” said Howard Eberts, OSHA’s area director in Cleveland. “Employers who are cited for repeat violations demonstrate a lack of commitment to employee safety and health.”
Year after year citations for LO/TO failure continue to make the top 10 list of OSHA violations. Ranking at No. 5, LO/TO citations increased in 2018 by 2 percent, with 2,944 violations. The essence of lockout/tagout (LO/TO) is turning off equipment, disconnecting its power supply, and locking the power supply in its disconnected state until maintenance work is done. However, this only scratches the surface; making lockout/tagout work involves creating a lockout/tagout program for your facility. LO/TO can be a difficult procedure especially when a job or facility has large manufacturing equipment. Workplaces and workers can prevent life-altering accidents with LO/TO products. This infographic provides an excellent visual example of the standard.
Visit www.GraphicProducts.com or call 800-788-5572.
